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CLASS ACT Shawna Topian

By Melody Burri, staff writer
Posted Mar 15, 2011 @ 12:02 AM
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What activity or project have you tackled that has been the most challenging and rewarding?

The most challenging project I've ever been a part of would be the Off-Broadway play, "Blackbird" in New York City. It was most difficult because I had to be apart from my father and brother for three months. It also taught me a lot about contemporary acting. It was directed by the amazing Joe Mantello, who showed me so much about theatre and it was during that time I realized I wanted to be in theatre the rest of my life.

How did you get involved with that project?

There was an open call in New York City, I auditioned and had gotten called back numerous times. They called a few weeks later and asked if I would accept the standby for the young girl in the show. It was one of the greatest moments of my life.

What makes it rewarding?  

I learned so much about theatre and the importance of details while acting. I also discovered how rewarding the theatre can be and how it may be hard to be away from your family, but if you are doing what you love, it is worth it. I met amazing actors, directors, stage managers, secured an agent and also received my equity card.

Who has most inspired you to be the person you are today?

My mother and father are my biggest inspiration. My mother is always there to drive me back and forth to New York. She understands how difficult being an actress could be but still supports me in every way. I am so grateful for them both.

How do you balance all your time commitments?

It is difficult to balance all my commitments. I dance competitively, I am currently in the high school musical "Aida", I play piano, compose my own music, take voice lessons, attend workshops in NYC and take advanced classes in school. I find when I am busiest, I usually do the best in everything. Some days its difficult because of how exhausting it all can be, but I have discovered that every few weeks I just need a day to relax completely, whether its watching a movie, or reading a book or just napping. Relaxation is important every so often.

What do you could choose any career in the world, what would you be?

What activity or project have you tackled that has been the most challenging and rewarding?

The most challenging project I've ever been a part of would be the Off-Broadway play, "Blackbird" in New York City. It was most difficult because I had to be apart from my father and brother for three months. It also taught me a lot about contemporary acting. It was directed by the amazing Joe Mantello, who showed me so much about theatre and it was during that time I realized I wanted to be in theatre the rest of my life.

How did you get involved with that project?

There was an open call in New York City, I auditioned and had gotten called back numerous times. They called a few weeks later and asked if I would accept the standby for the young girl in the show. It was one of the greatest moments of my life.

What makes it rewarding?  

I learned so much about theatre and the importance of details while acting. I also discovered how rewarding the theatre can be and how it may be hard to be away from your family, but if you are doing what you love, it is worth it. I met amazing actors, directors, stage managers, secured an agent and also received my equity card.

Who has most inspired you to be the person you are today?

My mother and father are my biggest inspiration. My mother is always there to drive me back and forth to New York. She understands how difficult being an actress could be but still supports me in every way. I am so grateful for them both.

How do you balance all your time commitments?

It is difficult to balance all my commitments. I dance competitively, I am currently in the high school musical "Aida", I play piano, compose my own music, take voice lessons, attend workshops in NYC and take advanced classes in school. I find when I am busiest, I usually do the best in everything. Some days its difficult because of how exhausting it all can be, but I have discovered that every few weeks I just need a day to relax completely, whether its watching a movie, or reading a book or just napping. Relaxation is important every so often.

What do you could choose any career in the world, what would you be?

The career I am choosing is to be a singer/actress. But a close second choice would be directing!

What’s on your iPod?

I have so many things on my iPod! John Mayer, Dave Matthews Band, Jack Johnson, Beyonce, P!nk, a lot of musicals such as Next to Normal, Wicked, The Phantom of the Opera and so many more!

What do you do for fun?

I like to go shopping, spend time with friends and family.

If you could go anywhere in the world, where would it be?

I would love to travel to Paris.

What’s your favorite food?

Lobster or mashed potatoes.

What's your best advice for other students your age?

If you really love something and you want to pursue it in college or as a career — go for it! If you have a passion for it, everything else will fall into place. Just work hard and results will come in the end.

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