The Arts At Sweet Briar: Create. Innovate. Inspire. with Lola

Transcript

It’s time to meet Lola, a musical theater enthusiast-turned producer, choreographer, and songwriter. Sweet Briar’s intimate creative spaces helped her discover her voice on stage, and behind the scenes, all while forging lasting relationships with her fellow performers. Let’s hear how this artist found her spotlight and her confidence. Lola, take it away.

– Thanks for the intro, Alex, and hi, everyone. Ever since I was little, I knew I belonged on stage. I’d spent hours writing songs, and convincing my cousins to perform plays for our parents. As I got older, that passion grew. I performed in musical after musical, and really soaked up everything I could to grow as an artist. When I came to Sweet Briar, I wasn’t sure what my future would look like. I loved performing, but was nervous I wouldn’t find the same creative community I had back home. Thankfully, Sweet Briar’s small but passionate group of open-minded artists gave me the space to truly grow. I performed in amazing productions like “The Tempest”, “Natasha, Pierre, and the Great Comet of 1812”, and more. I even got to choreograph a show. It was a process that gave me real insight into what a future in the arts beyond college might hold. Sweet Briar’s small class sizes also mean that we work closely with our professors. Last semester, in the music studio, our class collaborated to produce one of my original songs, a hands-on creative process that taught us so much. Sweet Briar has helped me grow, not just as a performer, but as a true artist. Sweet Briar’s small classes create a close-knit, supportive community. Everyone looks out for one another and faculty members truly want us to succeed. When someone has a senior show, the whole community pitches in, sets, costumes, lighting, everything. It’s an amazing environment to grow your skills and discover who you are. Sweet Briar’s students and faculty truly cultivate authenticity, and because of that, I’ve grown into the person I wanna be. The support here has helped me gain confidence and clarity. Thanks to the skills I’ve learned, I now have the tools to pursue any career I set my mind to. Well, that’s it for me. What about you, Alex?

– Lola, your story proves that creativity thrives in the community here at Sweet Briar. From directing shows to producing original music, your growth reflects the kind of personal and artistic transformation this incredible school is known for. Bravo. We can’t wait to see what’s next for you. Thanks again.