Kiana Vazquetelles
Hometown: Charlotte, NC
BA in Theatre Performance and Minor in Communications Studies
2024
How did you first get interested in theatre?
I’ve been interested in theatre ever since I can remember. I would write elaborate movies and cast my family in them and shoot them on our little flip camera. I would put on performances in the living room with my cousins, even if it meant performing for just a couple of family members. Theatre has never ceased being exhilarating to me. It has always felt right!
What kind of career do you hope to have?
I hope to have a career in live entertainment. There’s nothing like the buzz of creating magic for a live audience. I’m most excited by themed experiences and immersive, interactive theatre. I want to be able to create, experiment, learn new skills, and enjoy myself doing so.
What is your favorite thing about the Department of Theatre?
My favorite thing about the Department of Theatre is the opportunity for students to dabble in multiple different disciplines. You can take a scenic design class, circus, directing, puppetry, commedia dell’arte, costuming, etc. I have certainly mixed and matched many different courses as a performance major. You have the opportunity and freedom to become a more well-rounded artist.
Do you participate in any community activities or work in the Charlotte arts community?
I have worked in the entertainment department at Carowinds Amusement Park for a couple of years now. I’ve done everything I possibly could, including acting, stage management, supervision, parade float directing, spotting, driving, and being a character performer. I’ve worked with people located in Charlotte and people from all over the country. It’s so rewarding to create meaningful guest experiences in both of the Carolinas.
When you are not in class, studying, or working, what do you like to do for fun?
When I have the free time, I love to visit the Mac Tabby Cat Cafe in NoDa, grab boba at Binky Cafe with friends, play Animal Crossing, and go thrifting.