A look into how Mrs.Harpenau got to where she is today
By Ashlee Schroeder
Amy Harpenau has many titles: actress, singer, dancer, and now director. Coming into NAHS fresh off stage, Harpenau says she is ready for a great year in our theatre department.
How did you get to NAHS?
After completing my BFA in Musical Theatre and Dance from Ball State University, I moved to New York City and starting performing in theatres across the Midwest. After several years, I decided that I wanted to share my love for the arts and began to sit on the other side of the business as a director and choreographer.
How did you get into theatre arts?
I’ve been singing and dancing, doing shows, since I can remember. It has always been a passion and a part of my life. My first show was with Floyd Central and the next year I was in “Annie” with Mr. Longest at NAHS. I have spent a lot of time on both schools’ stages!
As an FC graduate did you ever think you’d be here taking over the NA program?
I actually have performed on the NAHS stage, several times as a matter of fact! In “Annie”, “Showboat” (the first show in the new auditorium), “Gospell”, and “The Music Man”.
After graduating from Ball State, what was your first move to jump start your career?
I went to the Barn Theatre in Michigan three days after I graduated to do an entire summer stock season of seven shows until the end of September. I ended up working at that same theatre for three seasons.
What do you hope to accomplish this year?
My goal is to give all students the opportunity to achieve their goals, whether onstage or off, and to reach heights that they never thought they could. The students raise the bar as high as they want it and I work with them to do everything they can with their talents. I want to have a successful and solid year that sees our auditorium packed with sold out crowds.
What’s your ultimate stress reliever? Listening to loud music while driving with the windows down.
What’s your favorite flavor of ice cream? Cookies and Cream
If you were stranded on an island and had only three wishes what would you wish for?
Beautiful weather, a beach chair, and a big feast!
What’s up for this year’s theatre department?
We are starting with a Cabaret celebrating the best of our 55 years of theatre in our brand new Tom Weatherston Studio Theatre. Following will be fan favorite, “Annie”, on the mainstage. This spring we will be premiering Cinderella on the Mainstage and Almost, Maine (a play) in the studio theatre.