Kate Kesilman has been performing since she was 7 years old. Connor Nace didn’t get his start in musical theater until he was 15.
But what both recent Central Bucks graduates have in common is that this weekend’s Doylestown Theatre Academy production of “42nd Street” at New Hope-Solebury High School will be the “curtain call” for their musical theater careers in Bucks County.
Kesilman, who graduated this year from Central Bucks West, has performed in over 25 shows in Bucks County, including every one of her middle and high school shows. She got her start in musical theater when her parents signed her up for classes at Theatre Arts Center (TAC) in New Britain.
Nace, in contrast to Kesilman, got a late start in musical theater at the ripe old age of 15. Nace began singing at age 8 when his sister was taking guitar lessons at the School of Rock in Doylestown. He was recruited to perform in musical theater when he was working on the stage crew at Central Bucks East in Buckingham, after friends let it slip to the director that he was a talented singer.
Kesilman and Nace both were clear about all the ways that musical theater has enhanced their lives. Through musical theater they have been exposed to fantastic teachers, made lifelong friends, gained confidence and been inspired to become better people.
All things must come to an end, however, and both Kesilman and Nace graduated from high school this year and are moving on from Bucks County to new challenges.
Despite her success and longevity in musical theater, Kesilman has decided to pursue physical therapy for a career and will be attending the University of Pittsburg in the fall. She does plan to keep musical theater as a part of her life, either through clubs or classes.
For Nace the passion for musical theater continues. Nace plans pursue musical theater as a career. He will major in contemporary music and music business at Belmont University in Nashville Tennessee.
When asked why someone should come see “42nd Street” this weekend, both Kesilman and Nace said essentially the same thing – that it’s going to be a fantastic show with a strong cast, interesting plot line and great performances. The one thing they didn’t mention, however, perhaps out of modesty, it will be the last opportunity to see these two extremely talented young performers share their craft in Bucks County.
“42nd Street” is on stage at New Hope Solebury High School Aug. 9 and 10 with showtimes at 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. both days. Tickets are available at DoylestownTheatreAcademy.com.
Join our readers whose generous donations are making it possible for you to read our news coverage. Help keep local journalism alive and our community strong. Donate today.
