Meet Marianna Young!
“I chose Kent State because I felt immediately at home here,” said Marianna. “As soon as I toured the school I knew this was the place for me and I truly wouldn’t want to be anywhere else. I also really fell in love with the musical theatre program. All of the faculty and staff made me feel so welcome!”
Major: Musical Theatre
Minor: Dance
Graduation Date: Spring 2028
Hometown: Fort Myers, Florida
Why did you choose to study musical theatre?
I’ve been performing since I was 5 years old and I couldn’t imagine myself doing anything else. My love of theatre has flourished throughout the years through productions such as “Sister Act,” “Cinderella” and “Six!”
In your time at Kent State, what are some accomplishments you are proud of?
During my time here I’ve been really proud of myself for being cast in “Pride & Prejudice-The Musical” in my first semester of freshman year. It’s truly been a dream and I’m so grateful to everyone who made it possible!
What would you like to do after graduation?
After graduation, I would love to move to New York City and audition professionally for off and on Broadway shows. On the side, I would definitely love to work at Stardust Diner!
What clubs and organizations are you involved in on campus?
I am in the a cappella group on campus, Vocal Intensity, and a proud sister of the Delta Gamma Sorority!
How has the School of Theatre and Dance made a difference to you?
Kent State's musical theatre program has substantially made a difference in my life. I’ve made so many new friends and I feel valued by all of my professors. Every one of them has my best interest at heart and I feel like I matter here.
What has been your favorite class at Kent State?
My favorite class at Kent State right now is musical theatre performance. Amy Fritche (associate professor of acting and musical theatre) and Jennifer Korecki (associate professor of musical theatre) are phenomenal teachers and I cherish the opportunity to watch my peers learn and grow. I also find it very rewarding to perform in front of all of them and hear their feedback so I can also learn and grow!
What are your favorite campus events?
My favorite campus event so far has been parents/family weekend because I got to spend time with my mom and dad as well as my aunt and uncle and I didn’t realize just how much I missed them until I saw them again. There were also a lot of fun and interactive events to do that day!
What is your best memory at Kent State?
My best memory at Kent State has to be finding out I was booked for “Pride & Prejudice-The Musical” with some of my friends! It felt like all of my hard work leading up to that day had paid off and I was so ecstatic.
Do you have advice for others?
My advice to anyone and everyone is to always be kind to others. It doesn’t take a lot to give a compliment to someone, you never know if they are having a bad day and that may have just cheered them up. Also, reputation is everything, especially in the theatrical world so if you’re not kind to someone it will come around back to you. As many folks say, leave the drama onstage!
Quick Facts:
Do you have hobbies?
I love to read, write, ice skate, play claw machines, play the piano, shop/thrift, songwriter and hang out with friends!
What is your favorite movie?
I love any rom-coms but my favorite one is probably “10 Things I Hate About You!”
What show are you currently watching?
I’ve been watching “Love Island” with my mom!
What song do you have on repeat?
I listen to a lot of Ariana Grande so of course her new album is up there but I‘ve also been listening to a lot of Sabrina Carpenter and Chappell Roan!
What is your favorite place to get food in Kent?
I really like to grab food at the Design Innovation Hub!
What is your favorite book?
My favorite book is probably the “Court of Thorns and Roses” series!
What is your go-to coffee/tea order?
I’ve really been obsessed with Pumpkin Cream Chais at the moment!