You probably know someone – an artist – who is completely committed to their craft. They might spend hours a day perfecting it, whether that be in the visual or performing arts. Senior Avery Schiff is one of those people. But, she’s not just committed to one type of art; Avery is a pro when it comes to singing, acting, dancing, visual arts, and even musical arts, playing instruments like the piano.
This kind of work ethic has been a part of Avery’s life since the very beginning. She started taking piano lessons after school at a very young age, and although she doesn’t take lessons anymore, she still enjoys playing for fun. She keeps up her piano skills by taking classes like AP Music Theory.
In addition to her passion for music, Avery is also skilled in the visual arts, primarily working in painting. She even started an Instagram account, @averyspaints, to “show off my paintings and potentially sell them,” as she described.
You probably remember Avery from her starring role in last year’s award-winning musical, “9 to 5,” where she expertly performed the role of Judy Bernly. “I get a sense of accomplishment in myself when I perform,” she said. With the demanding rehearsal schedule during the musical season, it’s truly rewarding to see all of your hard work pay off in the end.
Avery cited Director of Theater Kyle Reynolds as one of her biggest mentors during her four years at KO. “He has created such a professional environment,” she said. “It doesn’t feel like I’m just a kid doing a musical, I’m a true actress. I wouldn’t get that anywhere else.”
In addition to being a seasoned actress and singer, Avery is also a very skilled dancer. This year will mark her third and final year performing in the Choreographer’s Showcase. “I love the movement and the expression of dance,” she said. “I think it’s a great way to both get exercise and express yourself.”
Avery mentioned how she loves the tight-knit community of artists that has formed from activities like the Choreographer’s Showcase and the Winter Musical. From bonding during rehearsals to performing together, the friendships made in the KO theater and dance departments are like no other.
Avery also talked about how she is truly grateful for all of the teachers at KO who have guided her along the way. “They’ve taught me so much in such a professional way,” she said. “I feel so accomplished because of them.”
As a senior, Avery has been able to witness the evolution of the theater and dance departments at KO and has been so important to thier growth as one of the students who is so involved in both programs.
While Avery is unsure of what the future holds for her, she knows that she still wants the arts to be a constant in her life. We wish her all the best and know she’s going to do amazing things!
