Spotlight On: Hannah Kingsley

 

Connecticut Theatre Company’s “Spotlight On…” series continues with a look into the cast of The Prom. Get to know Hannah Kingsley who is in the ensemble of our production!

 

 

 

Introduce yourself to our audience.

My name is Hannah and I am a fourth grade math and science teacher. I am also in graduate school for librarian sciences. I have done musical theater for many years. Outside of theater I enjoy reading, dance, and visiting NYC whenever I can.

 

What drew you to your specific role, and what has been the most rewarding part of playing them?

As an ensemble member, I love all the group dances. Since I have done this show once before, I knew the songs and choreography would be a lot of fun.

 

What was your biggest “pinch-me” moment during the rehearsal or opening process?

Walking into rehearsal for the first time for the read through. It feels great to be a part of a show with an amazing cast and crew with new and current friends.

 

What is your favorite song to perform in the show, and why?

I love “Time to Dance” because of the high energy dancing. Everybody finally gets to be themselves and love each other for who they are.

 

Do you approach your character by finding similarities to yourself, or by focusing on how they are different from you?

I try to find similarities first and then work on the differences that make the character unique.

 

Do you have any pre-show rituals to calm your nerves before going on stage?

I like to sing some of the songs from the show before going to the theater to get into the mood.

 

If you could give advice to someone wanting to perform in musical theater, what would it be?

My advice would be to do it because it makes you happy and not for anybody else.

 

What was your experience at your own high school prom?

I had prom junior year and senior year. I went with a guy who was a good friend and we went with other friends. I remember it feeling like a lot of preparation for a couple of hours. After prom, we went out with friends to go bowling and enjoy the night.

 

What does it mean to you to perform a show that celebrates building bridges and finding the courage to be your authentic self?

It means a lot to be a part of a show that celebrates being who you authentically are. “The Prom” means a lot to me because I came out the first time I did this show at another theater company. It makes me happy to be able to show other people why we should love each other for who they are.

 

 

“The Prom” opens on May 22nd and runs through May 31st at Connecticut Theatre Company.  Tickets on sale now!

 

“It’s a 21st century “Bye Bye Birdie,” with showbiz interlopers causing havoc before finding their better selves — but re-imagined with a millennial slant and an echo of “Dear Evan Hansen” empowerment.” — FRANK RIZZO of Variety

 

“The Prom is hilarious, entertaining, and most importantly, moving. It highlights the ongoing cruelty in communities across the country. It highlights the ongoing barriers that minorities, specifically youth minorities, face daily.”  —  JESSICA NEU of onStage Pittsburgh

 

“What makes The Prom “more than entertainment” is the way its social messages are seamlessly threaded throughout a compelling storyline. The drama clearly offers a lesson in how a series of individuals and a whole town (surrogate for a nation or the world?) can be transformed from homophobia to an acceptance of life-affirming inclusivity.” —  JOAN LANCOURT of the arts fuse