Azusa Pacific University students in the Acting for the Stage and Screen (BFA) program graduate highly prepared for all aspects of the field. The program offers opportunities for students to direct and act in short films, be a part of live performances, and network with professional actors, directors, and writers. With a wide range of skills and techniques, students are able to land internships and roles with outside organizations before graduation, and summer break is the perfect time for students to dedicate themselves to their craft. This summer, three BFA students have been able to pursue their passion and build upon their knowledge and experiential skills outside of the classroom.
Sarah Fountain ’26
In her freshman year, Fountain took a musical theater workshop with Frank Minano, owner of Inland Valley Repertory Theater (IVRT). As part of the workshop, Fountain auditioned for one of the shows and began working with them on their production of Curious George playing the role of Netti. Shortly after, she was asked to be an assistant choreographer for their production of 13. So far this year, Fountain has been cast in Charlotte’s Web as Fern Arable, The Fantasticks as the Mute, and Newsies as Specs, Bowery Beauty, and Nun.
Working on a variety of projects ranging from musicals to theater for young audiences performances has enhanced Fountain’s range of abilities including specificity, working with children, conveying stories without words, and improving her dance skills. While working with an outside organization, Fountain’s professors supported and encouraged her. “My movement professor, Kirsten Humer, MFA, would generously take time to play with different movements with me for The Fantasticks and Charlotte’s Web,” she said. “I felt prepared for Newsies since my understanding of the body and movement had grown over the years. My acting professor, Andi Chapman, MFA, helped me find methods that worked best for me and inspired me to use my imagination. She is the reason I have grown immensely in my craft.” Fountain’s mentor, Ronda Rubio has also been influential in teaching her what it means to lead with grace and love as a woman of faith in theater.
Sofia Vaillancourt ’28
Vaillancourt is a cast member in the choir for the Rialto Community Players production of The Hunchback of Notre Dame. The show is directed by Cameron Harris, her technical theater practicum professor, and marks her debut with the organization. “APU prepared me for this experience by providing me with opportunities to practice singing and acting through classes and performances,” she said. “These opportunities taught me how to navigate the challenges performing can present.”
The show ran for four weeks with a total of 16 performances. This allowed Vaillancourt to gain an understanding of the rigorous, demanding schedule that comes with performing. However, dedicating herself to her craft has helped Vaillancourt to grow as a singer, specifically by strengthening her soprano vocal skills and ability to perform with a choir. “I have made many wonderful friends and connections with the cast that I will forever cherish.”
Alex Limones ’26
Limones began working for IVRT in 2020 and has since volunteered, taught, and performed with the organization. This is his third year as the acting teacher for the summer musical theater camp, his second year as a student board member, and in the spring he will co-teach a theatrical outreach program at El Roble Intermediate School. This summer, he was also a member of the ensemble for their production of Newsies. “While my collaboration with IVRT began prior to my college experience, having a family of theater professionals in both my academic and work environments is ideal,” he said.
Classes in the theater arts program cover a wide variety of topics, skill areas, and aspects of on-stage and behind the scenes work in the field. Limones’ classes on sets and props, theater history, and acting have all improved his confidence in leading his own students. “I love to glean every piece of wisdom from those around me in my classes, and I weave those tools into my own lesson planning,” he said. Limones continues to build his resume and skill set with IVRT while expanding upon his creative passions.