A 2008 ACDS graduate, Allison is thrilled to be back in the Roaring Fork Valley. She attended boarding school at Interlochen Arts Academy and earned a Bachelor’s of Fine Arts in Acting at Syracuse University. She performed in London at Shakespeare’s Globe in London and interned in New York at The New Group, 52nd Street Project, TADA, and Manhattan Theatre Club. She was instrumental in reviving the Terrence McNally Award at the Philadelphia Theatre Company, where she worked for five years as the artistic programs and events manager alongside Tony Award-nominated designers, writers and actors. Allie regularly performs locally, including with the Thunder River Theatre Company, Glenwood Vaudeville Theatre, and Aspen Community Theatre.
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.
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 quote?
“Great theatre is about challenging how we think and encouraging us to fantasize about a world we aspire to.” – Willem Dafoe