Interview with a teacher- Abigail Kochevar

Part of a series in which we interview our teachers and staff to learn more about them and get their insights into the world of performance. This week’s interview is with Abigail Kochevar, who was a summer choreographer for PAA, choreographing “Annie Kids” and “Magic Tree House: Dinosaurs Before Dark Kids” this past summer.

How long have you been working with PAA?

AK: I worked for PAA for four weeks during the summer of 2015

How many years have you been working in the performing arts?

AK: I have been a part of the performing arts community for seventeen years, and I have been actively working professionally for two years.

What is your performance background?

AK: I have 10 years of both stage acting experience and private voice lessons, 13 years of choral experience, and 17 years of dance training (ballet, jazz, tap, hip hop, character, partner, etc.)

What is your favorite role or production you’ve been involved in?

AK: Performing as Ensign Nellie Forebush in South Pacific and as Diana Goodman in Next to Normal have so far been my favorite roles and productions to have been in.

What is your top piece of advice for aspiring performers?

AK: There is always someone better than you and always someone worse than you. What’s important is to keep striving to learn something new every day, because when you are learning while you do something you love it’s never work and it’s always fun.

What do you think makes PAA special or unique?

AK: They focus on the human, not the machine. Meaning the children focus on core values and morals rather than who can whip out a perfect triple pirouette or hit the high C. They don’t manufacture performers, they mold and shape people who love to perform.

What is your most embarrassing performing arts moment?

AK: During my big dance solo in the show Once On This Island I tripped and fell. When I tried to get up my entire skirt fell down and everyone in the audience saw my bright pink underwear. Now I never go onstage without either nude spandex dance shorts or a leotard.

What is your favorite quote?

AK: “Will you succeed? Yes! You will indeed! 98 and three quarter percent guaranteed!”  –“Oh the Places You’ll Go” by Dr. Seuss