Full Name:
Kayla Paige Newman
Major/Year:
B.A. Theatre and Dance: Acting Focus, Third-Year
Favorite class in Theatre & Dance and why:
This semester my favorite class is, of course, my acting class. Although it has its challenges at times, it has successfully pushed me to work beyond any limitations that I once thought existed for myself. We are studying Chekhov's Three Sisters for the entire semester with Fran Dorn. Our scene work is limited because of our course's focus, but it allows us to work deeply with the text and focus on strengthening and grounding ourselves as actors in our technique. It has been an enlightening experience.
Favorite thing about Austin:
My favorite thing about Austin is that it is my home. I am very familiar with the majority of Austin, yet I am constantly discovering exciting new parts that continue to add to the energy of this city. The evenings where I drive down Lamar to meet my family for dinner are some of the most cherished evenings of each semester.
Favorite place to study:
I have a few coffee shops that I love to study at. They each have their unique personalities and delicious specialties. For a delectable latte, I got to La Tazza Fresca and order their dirty chai latte. For a long night study session, I go to Bennu. For a highly caffeinate iced coffee and the largest cupcakes in Austin, I go to Quacks.
Brief biography (including projects, awards, accomplishments):
My senior year of high school I participated in a Frontera Fest Short Fringe piece that made it to Best of Fest. A few months later, I was cast in Austin Hyde Park Theatre's production of Dog Sees God: Confessions of A Teenage Blockhead as CB's Sister. This production was nominated for multiple B. Iden Payne Awards and won Best Production of a Comedy. During my first semester in the theatre department, I became a company member of Hyde Park Theatre. I have been cast in Emergency Prom — this production has had a long and exciting process, which will be very memorable.
Current projects/research/interests:
Currently I am still working on Emergency Prom and preparing next semester's projects.
