I am a current Senior at Penn State Musical Theatre, receiving a BFA in May of 2026. I was born and raised in Mount Laurel, New Jersey, and am proud to be a Jersey native.

 

Before Penn State, I worked with both MTCA and College Audition Coach in preparation for college auditions, and I could not be more proud to be an alumnus of those two organizations. In my four years at Penn State, I have been apart of 6 musicals, 3 concerts, and 1 new musical.

 

favorite roles being Tracy in Hairspray and Olive in The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee. As well as being apart of Centralia: A new musical written by Adam Chanler-Berat and Julian Hornik, originating the role of Shelley Walgrove in the show.

 

I would love to thank John Simpkins, the head of Penn State Musical Theatre, for believing in me, as well as Gwen Walker, my voice teacher, who always encouraged me to be my authentic self and believe in my abilities. And of course, my wonderful family. Grandma, Dude, Chase, Dad and most importantly, Mom. I can not express the gratitude I have towards the endless support these 5 have provided me my entire life. My family has shaped who I am entirely as a person, and I could not be more grateful for that.

 

I am so excited to share my work with you! :)

 

@rickyykessler