Full Name:
Matrex Kilgore
Major/Year:
B.A. in Theatre and Dance
Hometown:
League City, Texas
High School:
Clear Creek High School
T&D: What made you decide to come to UT Austin?
Kilgore: As a high school sophomore, I spoke with Mr. Gerald who gave me a tour of the department and briefly shared with me the opportunities that UT had to offer. As a junior, I attended the US Performing Arts Theatre Camp and was given the opportunity to work with Professor Stephen Gerald and Holly Williams. Then, a brief meeting with the Academic Advisor, solidified the fact that everyone I had come into contact with at UT took the time to speak with me individually and share what they felt was unique and special about UT and how I fit in. The personalization that I received at this major university let me know that UT was where I wanted to be.
T&D: What made you decide to claim Theatre & Dance as your degree as an incoming freshman?
Kilgore: As an incoming freshman, I claimed Theatre and Dance as my degree because of my love for the stage. I have always loved performing and would like to pursue a career in this area. I feel certain that the University of Texas at Austin's Theatre & Dance Department will best prepare me for my future career goals in the Arts.
T&D: What was your participation level in theatre in high school?
Kilgore: I was very active in theatre in high school. I had roles in A Midsummer Night's Dream, Fantastiks, A Christmas Carol, Dracula, The Brick and The Rose, The Pot Boiler, Our Town, and The Crucible. I also participated in community theatre productions as well.
T&D: I know that you attended the US Performing Arts Theatre Camp hosted by the Department of Theatre & Dance in 2005. Could you tell us a little bit about the program? How did you like that experience? What was the most valuable thing that you learned from the summer program?
Kilgore: It was an amazing experience that allowed me to work with some of the most talented faculty as well as meet other theatre students from across the nation who shared my love for theatre.
T&D: How did you like that experience?
Kilgore: It was an unforgettable experience and I made friends that I still keep in contact with today. We shared a common creative experience that will last a lifetime.
T&D: What was the most valuable thing that you learned from the summer program?
Kilgore: The most valuable thing that I learned from the summer program was how to trust myself and develop as a performer.
T&D: What were your favorite classes during your first semester?
Kilgore: Languages of the Stage with Professor Stacy Wolf and Acting I with Professor Stephen Gerald. Both professors refuse to accept mediocrity and push me to excel beyond what I thought my abilities were. They equipped me with tools that I will be able to use in the future.
T&D: What has been the most challenging part about being in college? What has been the best?
Kilgore: The most challenging part about being in college is adapting to coursework, which is extremely more difficult than high school. Once you learn how to study at the collegiate level everything else falls into place. The best part about being in college is being guided and mentored by faculty who are truly the best at what they do as well as being surrounded by like–minded students who share common interests and passion about theatre.
T&D: What advice would you give high school students who are considering coming to UT?
Kilgore: UT provides young people with a wonderful opportunity to grow and flourish as young artists. The faculty is focused on personalizing the college experience for each and every student. If you work your hardest and push yourself to be the best that you can be you will be prepared for the future in the field that you choose. The atmosphere of Austin and the University's campus makes this the place to be. There is always a performance happening somewhere in or around Austin. On campus there is always something to do or join to stay active here at UT. The Department of Theatre and Dance always has something going so that you can stay active in the department. I'll tell you this—if you want to be involved in a great University with great students and great professors, I think UT is the place for you!
T&D: Have you discovered your favorite restaurant in Austin?
Kilgore: I LOVE to eat so I have a couple different favorite restaurants around campus. I am your average college kid so I eat a lot of pizza and burgers. My favorite pizza place, and what I think is the best pizza in Austin, is Austin's Pizza on the drag. I eat most of my burgers at Players on MLK. They stay open until 3 AM and the burgers are always good not matter what time it is. Other favorites include the Boiling Pot downtown and Magic Wok on Guadalupe.
T&D: Where's your favorite place to study?
Kilgore: My favorite place to study would have to be the atrium in the Winship Building, if it is cold or, when it is nice outside, I like to study in the South Mall in front of the tower. In the Atrium you can see most of the Theatre & Dance students and take nice study breaks. The South Mall has the best view of downtown Austin.
T&D: What's your favorite thing about Austin?
Kilgore: My favorite thing about Austin is the feeling of acceptance you get from the people here; they respect each other's differences. Austin is what I call a comfortable, college town. You can dress casual and attend almost any event in town without anyone giving you a second glance. This is the reason most UT graduates find it difficult to leave Austin after graduation.
