Full Name:
Kelli Schultz
Major/Year:
Fourth Year triple major in Theatre and Dance (Acting Focus), Plan II and American Studies
Favorite class in Theatre & Dance and why:
I absolutely LOVED Scott Kanoff's Directing 1 class in the spring of my sophomore year. I had only taken acting classes up to that point and getting a directing perspective was so helpful when learning to delve into a particular text. I have a much better sense of blocking, overall structure of a scene and character development which I carried into my acting focus. Scott is one of the most personable professors I have found at UT who truly cares about the progress of his students. He raises the bar of expectations and will push you to your limits of vulnerability and strength in your acting which has proven to be the most rewarding experience I've had in the past three years. He has taught me to listen, empathize, process, connect and live which has made me a stronger artist, student and young adult. I am so thankful to have had him as a mentor.
Favorite thing about Austin:
The Alamo Drafthouse. Definitely. There are a ton of different choices of different movies to see and they have excellent food served during the film. You can catch anything from a new release to a Moulin Rouge sing along. The Master Pancake Theatre hosts 'roasts' of pop culture movies like Twilight. It's such a unique experience that is representative of the "Keep Austin Weird" mentality that we all love.
Favorite place to study:
I love the fifth floor of the Fine Arts Library. The tables are huge and it's always so quiet. I cannot tell you how many times I have drooled on those tables, taking a nap between papers.
Brief biography (including projects, awards, accomplishments):
Brief biography (including projects, awards, accomplishments): I have been performing for years and decided to come to UT (as opposed to a conservatory) because I knew this institution would offer me an incomparable academic education as well as foster my growth as an artist. In the past three years, I have worked on many productions including Trojan Women, Our Town, Br'er Wood, The Threepenny Opera, Proof and Chronicles of Bad Ass Women as well as countless scenes for class/staged readings of New Works produced by our fabulous playwriting department. Regional credits: High School Musical, House of Several Stories, Cabaret. When I'm not rehearsing, I work a part-time job as a tour guide for the university which I love. Next year, I will be focusing on my senior thesis exploring how the meta-narratives of Texas History Textbooks have changed in the past century. I am also excited to star in Steven Dietz's new play 360 (round dance) in November, directed by the incomparable Courtney Sale.
Current projects/research/interests:
In the upcoming year, I will be focusing on my senior thesis which will analyze how the meta-narratives of Texas History Textbooks have changed in the past century. I am also excited to star in Steven Dietz's new play 360 (round dance) in November, directed by the incomparable Courtney Sale.
