Full Name:
Amanda Cayo
Major/Year:
Theatre and Dance B.A./Plan II/Business Foundations/ 3rd Year
Favorite class in Theatre & Dance and why:
I loved my Languages of the Stage class with Stacy Wolf. The small class size helped me feel comfortable and open to express my opinions. I felt like the class was a phenomenal introduction to many new areas of theatre that I had never been exposed to, like dramaturgy for example. Through this class I gained many new theatrical loves: musicals, magical realism, and late nights watching plays with friends.
Favorite thing about Austin:
The city vibe was what brought me to UT. I love how the city seems so balanced. There is a busy arts sector, a very large football stadium, thriving businesses, and a good number of parks. I love the festivals! There are arts festivals, culture festivals, and they even held Flugtag here last year! My favorite places are: Barton Springs, Mozart’s coffeeshop, Amy's Ice Cream, and the 2nd Street District.
Favorite place to study:
I love to study in coffee shops! I know some people may see this as pretentious and oh so college. But I need a little background noise when I study, like the chattering of people and the whirring of coffee machines. Having a little coffee only enhances the studying experience.
Brief biography (including projects, awards, accomplishments):
I am most recently from Georgia, but I have also lived in California, Texas, and Missouri. I was brought to Texas due to the wonderful Austin environment and the academic opportunities offered by UT. At my time here I have performed in productions put on by the Round About Players and in the departmental production of Holes. I have spent my summers here in Austin working as an Orientation Advisor for the university. In this job, I welcomed incoming freshmen and transfer students, introduced them to campus, and advised them on what courses to take in the fall. This past year I was nominated by the Plan II department and received the Unrestricted Endowed Presidential Scholarship for 2007-2008.
Current projects/research/interests:
Currently I am performing in the touring children's show Lily Plants a Garden. I am also trying my hand at dramaturgy by serving as assistant dramaturg for Ashes, Ashes. One of the most enjoyable things I am doing is interning at the Austin Children's Museum. I am an Early Education Intern with a focus on their storytime program. I have found this a wonderful application of theater in the non-profit sector. In my free time, I love hanging out with my friends, watching as many movies and junk TV shows as possible, and taking yoga classes at Gregory.
