Has writing always been an interest of yours, or have you been more interested in other areas of theatre?

Busted is actually the first “play” I have ever written. I make my living as an actor doing primarily theatre and voice overs. I have written a great deal of poetry, but this is the first time I have done anything like this.

Where did you find the inspiration for your piece in Illuminating Voices: “Busted”?

My time at Loyola was very special to me. Its where I really started to come into my own. Its also where I learned a great deal of painful lessons. It was that aspect that inspired “Busted”. Even through some of the difficult times, there was always humor.

How did your time as a student at Loyola did impact you as an artist?

My time as Loyola is still my foundation. Not just as an artist but as a person. It is truly where I grew into myself and found the beginning of my voice. Everything I am today, I believe, is directly effected by my 5 years at Loyola. I made relationships with people that remain some of the most important people in my life. I gained confidence in my spirit and in my craft, and was nurtured to embrace who I am and take risks. I am so grateful to my Loyola family.

What were your thoughts when you were approached about taking part in the Illuminating Voices project?

When I was first asked to participate in this project I didn’t even think twice about it. I love a good challenge and writing a play is something I have always wanted to do. So I thought trying to create a scene/10 minute piece would be a great opportunity to see if I had it in me. I loved this experience.

Your credits in Chicago are numerous, what would you say about this city as a home for the arts?

Chicago, as a home for artists, is tremendous. It is truly a family. There is immense support and encouragement, and a true desire to create great work and to continually challenge ourselves as artists. We are always asking questions and taking risks in this city, and the reason we can do that with a bit of fearlessness is because everyone has everyone’s back. People who come here from other parts of the country comment on it all the time. Its a magical place. I never take being able to work and live in this city for granted.

What impact do you believe the opening of the Newhart Family Theatre will have on the arts at Loyola?

I was able to take a peak of the new facility recently, and I was in awe. The new space will help raise the bar of excellence in the arts, and encourage students to try bigger and bolder things. What I also love is that the new space does not interrupt one of the aspects of the Loyola program that I hold especially dear: the sense of community. The new space, even with all of its vastness and modern sensibilities still embraces a “shared space” and connective tissue that, I feel, is one of the unique qualities of the Loyola experience.