Katie Nowak | Actor & Stage Manager
Once
Baruška
by Glen Hansard and Markéta Irglová
dir. Kelly Howe & David Fiorello | Spring 2024
Performance Reel
Reflection
This semester marked a significant milestone in my journey at Loyola University Chicago as I had the honor of landing a primary role in the spring production of Once, portraying the character Baruška. Serving as my final performance in Loyola's theater scene, this experience surpassed my expectations in every way imaginable. Over the course of the past two months, I not only embraced the role but also found myself immersed in a vibrant theater community, honing my musical talents, and refining my skills as both an actor and vocalist. The success of this production was a testament to the collaborative effort between myself and the dedicated creative team.
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From the outset, back in January, I was warmly welcomed into a tight-knit community by the creative team, who would soon become my theater family for the duration of the production. Led by Kelly and David, both directing for the first time at Loyola, there was a refreshing sense of inclusivity and openness to collaboration. Unlike past experiences where directors dictated every aspect of the production, this team encouraged input from the cast, valuing each member's perspective and preferences. This approach fostered a safe and supportive environment where everyone felt empowered to contribute creatively and take risks without fear of judgment or failure. We truly bonded as a family, celebrating our successes and lifting each other up during setbacks.
Moreover, this production provided me with the opportunity to expand my musical repertoire. Initially proficient only on the piano, I emerged from Once with newfound skills as a percussionist, thanks to the belief and support of the music direction team. Their confidence in my ability to learn a new instrument motivated me to excel, adding "Cajon" and "Tambourine" to my list of musical proficiencies. Through ensemble playing and a heightened sense of rhythm, my musical abilities have grown substantially.
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Furthermore, Once served as a platform for me to continue evolving as a performer. Drawing upon the knowledge and techniques acquired since my freshman year, I approached each scene with depth and specificity, seamlessly incorporating accent work into my character portrayal. The meticulous attention to detail by the dialects team ensured authenticity in our Czech and Irish accents, equipping me with professional-level training in accent work. This newfound skill set enriches my versatility as a performer and enhances my future creative endeavors.
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In summary, Once was an unforgettable culmination of my journey at Loyola University. The sense of community and camaraderie fostered by the directing team, coupled with the opportunity for personal and artistic growth, made it a truly remarkable experience. As I embark on new adventures beyond Loyola, I carry with me the invaluable lessons learned and skills acquired during this production, grateful for the memories and connections forged along the way. It was, indeed, a magnificent closing show.