The kick-start of eighth grader Natalie Malinowski’s career in the arts occurred when she was only 7 years old. Now, Natalie is starring in plays, working with renowned artists, and diving deep into the world of art.
Natalie’s career started early, when her mom saw on Facebook that the Hartford Yard Goats were looking for someone to sing “God Bless America” before one of their games. Young Natalie immediately knew that she wanted to audition. She eventually got the gig and got to sing at Dunkin’ Park in front of roughly 6,000 people! This experience meant a lot to Natalie and pushed her to get more involved with the arts. “It was a really fun summer for me,” Natalie reflected. “I got into acting and musicals after that.”
Natalie then began taking lessons with a vocal coach, as well as piano and dance lessons. While she eventually stepped back from formal lessons after the COVID-19 pandemic, her involvement in the arts at her school and in her community only began to grow. She started to audition for musicals and landed roles in many notable musicals, including “The Aristocats,” “Winnie the Pooh Jr.,” “The Sound of Music,” and “Bye Bye Birdie.” Natalie’s involvement in musicals has allowed her to learn many important lessons. “It’s taught me not to be afraid to get up in front of a crowd and do what you love,” Natalie said.
This year marked a new chapter for Natalie, taking her first-ever choir class at KO. The experience proved to be transformative for Natalie. “It’s been amazing,” she said. “I’ve been able to experiment with my voice and work with a group instead of just by myself.”
Natalie also got the amazing opportunity to work with Dr. Ruff, the Goodman Banks visiting artist for the 2025-2026 school year. Natalie performed “Tomorrow, Tomorrow,” from the musical “Annie,” during the assembly. To prepare, Natalie met with Dr. Ruff various times over Zoom, and was able to take private vocal lessons with him. This experience was life-changing for Natalie. “It was really fun,” she reflected. “He taught me how to open up to singing. It was a really cool experience because I learned more from him than I had in any of my past experiences with vocal coaches.”
This fall, Natalie starred as Meg Murray in the KO Middle School’s production of “A Wrinkle in Time.” The play follows Meg Murray as she travels through space and time to rescue her scientist father. Performing in the play was very rewarding for Natalie. “It was a really great experience,” Natalie said. “I got to know a lot of people through it.”
Looking ahead, Natalie plans on keeping the arts in her life. She hopes to continue her vocal training, and join a capella groups as well as continue to perform in plays and musicals in high school and, perhaps, beyond. “Since it’s been part of my life for so long, I’d have a hard time letting it go,” Natalie reflected. “I’d probably want to minor in it in college.”
Seven years later, Natalie still sings “God Bless America,” every year at Dunkin’ Park. Music has been such a constant in her life, and has allowed Natalie to express emotions, release tension, and understand herself. “Singing helps open up a window to the soul,” Natalie reflected. “I find it very relaxing, and I’m able to express my emotions when I find a song I really like.”
We wish Natalie all the best as she continues her journey in the arts, and we can’t wait to see what she’ll do next!
