A 2008 ACDS graduate, Allison is thrilled to be back in the Roaring Fork Valley. She attended boarding school at Interlochen Arts Academy and then earned a Bachelor’s of Fine Arts in Acting at Syracuse University. Allison also studied in London, working at Shakespeare Globe and performing on the Globe stage in a production of Romeo and Juliet.
Following college, Allison was an education intern in New York at The New Group, 52nd Street Project, TADA, and Manhattan Theatre Club. For five years after that she was the Artistic Programs and Events Manager at Philadelphia Theatre Company (PTC) where she handled all casting initiatives, the literary and patron services departments, line producing, and was tasked with managing over 200 staff members and reopening the venue after the COVID pandemic. She was also instrumental in reviving the PTC’s Terrence McNally Award that “seeks to recognize playwrights who create art that is subversive and provocative.”
Allison believes that theatre can be a powerful tool when it comes to developing imagination, confidence, and self worth.
What did you want to be when you grew up?
I discovered my love of theatre after auditioning for the All School Play at Aspen Country Day School during First Grade. Marci Sketch was the teacher then and she inspired me so much. I started performing a lot when I was younger, but in the back of my head, I always said I wanted to become a drama teacher like Marci. I forgot about this dream, but was still involved in theatre in my career. It’s funny how life works out; if you asked me five years ago where I would be now, I don’t think a drama teacher would be my answer. But now, I don’t think there is anything else in the world I’d rather be than the ACDS Lower School Drama Teacher.
What is one thing you’re super proud of?
I’m really proud of my confidence and resilience. I owe my confidence to my time in theatre and resilience to experiences. They help me get through every challenge that life throws at me.
Best advice you’ve ever received?
The best advice I ever received was to own who you are. It takes some time to figure out what makes you, you. The uniqueness of you is your power, you bring something to the table that no one else can. You should never be embarrassed by who you are, if you embrace it that’s when you’ll discover your real power and potential.
Favorite Aspen Country Day School tradition?
My favorite ACDS tradition is the Holiday Sing. We used to get dressed to the nines and go to the Hotel Jerome and perform different holiday tunes. The entire school would be involved and all the parents would come and support. There was something so beautiful about starting our holiday break with a big concert that celebrates joy, family, and giving.
Favorite quote?
“Great theatre is about challenging how we think and encouraging us to fantasize about a world we aspire to.” – Willem Dafoe