Olivia Pesina

I have been passionate about music since I was a little girl. When I was six years old, I decided to start piano and vocal lessons. This is what began my love for music. As the youngest student, feet barely reaching the pedals, but still putting my all into every performance and refusing to give up, that is what summarizes me as a performer. Since that time in my life, I have had many opportunities to sing. Through middle and high school, I sang the National Anthem for many school functions, and even a county fair. In sixth the grade, I made the decision to join band, expanding my knowledge of music. I went with Trumpet, and later switched to Euphonium. When I became involved in my high school theatre program is the moment I realized what I want to do with my life. I was given the opportunity to be student vocal director, which was a great experience, learning a new way to teach what I love. Towards the end of that year, my director had to leave unexpectedly, and I was asked to step into the role of lead vocal director. I was faced with new challenges I never had before. Running entire practices alone, figuring out how to run a smooth, yet engaging rehearsal, and becoming more involved with the behind the scenes of it all. As a director, I helped choose the cast list, come up with fundraising ideas, and helped decide set decisions. I hope to advance my singing, dancing, and acting skills at Oakland University, where I know it is an encouraging environment to be.

• Beauty and the Beast- Madame de la Grande Bouche
• Mary Poppins- The Bird Woman
• Shrek the Musical- Dragon
• Mamma Mia- Lisa
• Into the Woods- Baker's Wife
• Mean Girls- Janis