By: Brittany Eyres
Brianne Bailey is a communication major. Originally from Sunrise, Fla., Bailey’s focus is in media studies but she also holds minors in dance and theater. Bailey spent her four years at NSU doing things she loved with people she will never forget. She has been involved in the Department of Performing and Visual Arts since she was a freshman, with involvement in the Student One-Acts, “Improv Jam,” “Hamlet,” “Once Upon a Mattress” and more.
At what age did you become interested in theater?
My mom put me in every possible after-school activity, but I started musical theater when I was in kindergarten through eighth grade, then picked it back up again in college.
Who has had a major impact on your life?
I think it has been a group effort to help me achieve all of my goals and push me towards opportunities and experiences I would’ve been too afraid to try myself. My mom, dad, brother and sister have had the greatest impact on me. They always push me to do more and go above and beyond.
What is the theatre program like at NSU? How is it different from communication?
It’s like a giant family, because I feel like we do everything together, since we’re rehearsing every single night until late hours. I also think we’re the biggest support group here. We go to all the sporting and dance events together.
It’s different from my communication courses because those are more lecture centered, whereas theatre classes are more you doing most of the speaking in front of the class, entertaining the class and stepping out of your comfort zone.
What has been the biggest challenge for you during your time at NSU?
Nova’s attendance policy because I have to balance auditions, video-shoots, photoshoots and interviews, which makes it extremely difficult to skip class when you can only have about two to three absences per semester or else you fail the class.
What has been the most rewarding experience for you at NSU?
Probably working as one of the lead roles in “Dog Sees God,” the show that just happened. Just working so close with everybody so much, I think will stick with me for life.
What are your plans for after graduation?
Internship with NBC 6 hopefully, then save enough money to move to Los Angeles and become a sports broadcaster.
If you could leave one thing to the students at NSU, what would it be?
Theater and auditions are open to everyone. You don’t need to have experience to be in the arts, and I think it’s something everyone should experience at least once during college.
Photo Credit: B. Bailey
Caption: Bailey encourages students to experience the arts in some way during college.