Destinee Rodriguez never saw herself as a theatre star. But thanks to the encouragement of her mom, Rodriguez stars as Campbell Davis in the musical theatre production of Bring It On, which shows this week in our theatre.
“It has been so rewarding to see how much Destinee has grown as a performer in just a few shorts years,” theatre director Benjamin Fraley said. “When she dedicates herself to something, she goes all in. It’s been fun to see her embody a character that is so different from her real personality.
Bring It On is a movie about high school cheerleaders from rival schools and the journey they share.
Rodriguez has been doing theater since she was eight years old, and hasn’t stopped since. When the bright light hits the stage jitters are felt, but then singing comes along and a feeling of freeness is felt. The stage is like a safe place.
Rodriguez states that the main character from Bring It On is really bubbly, which isn’t her. When acting like another individual it can be hard, but she uses her personal experience to connect with the character.
As Rodriguez is a senior, theater is coming to an end, but thanks to this experience she met many individuals who she can call her family. After high school Destinee has set her passion into becoming a veterinarian, but theater is still going to be a priority to her.
Rodriguez recommends everyone who is under stress, wants to hangout, or just wants to occupy their time to join musical theater. Theater has changed Destinee in ways she could not imagine. In the beginning of it all she was shy and didn’t like putting herself out there. Theater made her become a braver and outgoing person.
Rodriguez says theatre has taken her out of her comfort zone. She brought out the hidden talent for singing. Most importantly an opportunity that is memorable.
Fraley is excited about the show.
“This show was meant to be a challenge for the students in the class as well as us, the directors, and it really was. We had to stretch ourselves in so many ways and push the students into new directions. Having actual cheerleaders in the cast was a blessing because they already understood the language of the choreography. It’s been a really fun experience despite the stressful moments.”
