CFA: What’s your role in the fellowship? What are your responsibilities?

Dylan: My role at the Hangar Theatre Company this summer was as a Lab Company Performance Fellow. This summer, I was contracted to perform in three Theatre for Young Audiences (TYA) plays – two musicals and one play. Additionally, the fellows perform in the theatre’s Wedge: FutureNow Festival, showcasing new workshops of plays published in the Ithaca, New York area.

CFA: How did you learn about the fellowship, and what steps did you take to secure it?

Dylan: I have been aware of the Hangar Theatre’s presence as a prominent regional theatre, and inadvertently discovered the fellowship after discovering my older brother and other friends were hired for the Summer 2022 season. When I traveled to Ithaca that summer to see the various performances occurring, there was no doubt in my mind that Hangar would be on my radar the following year. Once the application was live, I sent in various self-tapes (initial audition and callback) in addition to a written application.

CFA: Any notable accomplishments from the fellowship?

Dylan: The fellowship inherently works similarly to the typical summer theatre/summer-stock contract– actors are required to perform in multiple shows during the summer, sometimes working simultaneously. Having only about nine days to learn, rehearse then add technical aspects to a show is certainly a large learning curve!

Before this summer, it had been about five years since I performed on stage, so it was nerve-wracking to be thrown into the machine that is summer theatre. Thankfully, [we had] a supportive team that made the process digestible to learn and equitable to showcase our individual abilities as performing artists while uplifting the text and music given to us.

CFA: Did any resources at CFA or BU help you prepare for the fellowship?

Dylan: Yes! I was able to utilize this fellowship to complete my internship credit for the BFA Theatre Arts major. I knew once I declared my major this past spring, I wanted to be employed at a performance-based internship. Additionally, I would not have been able to complete this internship without the open conversations and eventually recommendations submitted by my professors!

CFA: How did the coursework at CFA connect with your fellowship?

Dylan: A various amount of the tracks I was cast in were heavily dance/movement-based. I was able to utilize what I had learned in the Movement I curriculum from Professor Yo-EL Cassell to ensure I had the stamina to keep up with the rigorous rehearsal processes, in addition to being able to think on the spot when there was an opportunity for me to collaborate with a director/choreographer on how a certain sequence feels best in my character’s body.

CFA: In what ways do you think the fellowship has helped you prepare for your work beyond BU?

Dylan: Being my first professional contract, working at the Hangar Theatre has given me an idea of how theatre works outside of a university setting. Although Boston University School of Theatre works similarly to an equity house, as a performer, I was able to interact directly with those while working on the Production and Company Management side. This was extremely interesting to learn about because it only adds to my belief that theatre is inherently community-based – it doesn’t solely matter what goes on in the rehearsal room, it is what happens on all ends (administrative to creative) that provides engaging theatre for audiences.

Additionally working on TYA has allowed me to learn what it’s like to perform and interact with audiences that are generally younger than the fellows themselves! Being able to look into the house and see parents and children gather for titles made specifically for them reminds me of why I am so passionate about theatre.

CFA: What did you learn about yourself?

Dylan: I learned that I am able to have a voice as a performer. Being an actor doesn’t mean you’re solely a pawn for a casting or directing team. You are able to have input on whatever piece you’re working on in order to be comfortable and proud of the work you’re showcasing. This was made true by both my work at BU this past year and carried on to the Hangar Theatre.

CFA: Any advice for current students beginning to look for professional work opportunities?

Dylan: Don’t stress yourself over it! Just apply, apply, apply – even if you’re unsure if it’s the right position for you. The work will come to you. Also, talk to your professors! They have incredible input and are rooting for you!

CFA: What’s next for you, Dylan?

Dylan: Continuing classes and being able to perform in this year’s season at the School of Theatre! Come see the shows! There’s truly intimate and impactful work happening right here on campus.