By Christopher Balkanski
With a passion for singing and acting, Kayla-Elizabeth Meyzen dreamt of starting a career in the performing art of theater, making a life for herself on the stage. Throughout her journey, however, she noticed the intimidating and harsh nature often associated with theater.
After enrolling at Tallahassee Community College, she was presented with the chance to make a positive impact on the college’s theater program. She wanted those who came into the theater to feel the courage to speak freely and feel embraced within the community she has always envisioned. One that is free of judgment.
Meyzen has made contributions to the Tallahassee theater scene by taking the role of President of “Curtain Call,” TCC’s theater club that chooses plays for the upcoming school semesters and provides opportunities to be involved in acting and work backstage at Tallahassee Community College. She has made it her mission as president to spread positivity and enthusiasm in an environment that is well known as being intimidating and difficult.
By organizing morale-boosting group activities and advocating for plays that are diverse in cast, Meyzen seeks ways to make change. She said she is encouraged to continue leading in a positive way.
“I wanted to help bring people together,” said Meyzen. “I wanted to make sure that this club can be a safe space for people to come and make friends and just be themselves.”
Shadin Haitham is a member of the theater club who has vouched for Meyzen’s significant progress as president. He said Meyzen is fulfilling her goals and making theater a better place.
“A goal she had for the club is to make everyone feel included,” said Haitham. “I’ve seen that she has done that.”
While Meyzen is proud of the work she has done, there is more to be done. She said she continues bringing new ideas to the table and strives to improve things daily.
“I think you have to constantly set goals for yourself,” said Meyzen. “I think I’m on the track of achieving the goals.”
Christopher Balkanski is a second-year student at Tallahassee Community College from Miami. He plans on continuing his education in theater at the Florida State School of Theatre.
