1. Take a look back at your essential question. Did you answer it? Do you think that question was a good frame for your Senior Project? If not, how would you phrase that question now?

I had two parts of my essential question: How can I utilize theatre and dance to create a performance piece that explores my artistic identity? What is my artistic identity? The first part I can answer. I explored my artistic identity in my dance piece by combining my American and Middle Eastern heritage and by making a dance focused on hip hop and my new love for jazz. I focused on making my dance match up to the song; the song’s intricate beats and the lyrics. I explored my artistic identity in theatre by directing and acting in two comedy skits. I learned that I enjoy writing skits too. I learned that I like playing characters who are very different from each other and that I like comedy that is focused on over the top characters. The second part of my essential question is too broad for me to answer.  

1. Did you meet your goal(s) for Senior Project? Explain in detail.

I did meet my goals as I directed a piece, acting in a skit and choreographed a dance. I also was able to take 8-9 dance classes a week while choreographing. I did want to answer my second part of my essential question but after some interviews I realized answering this question would put me in a box.   

1. What growth or understanding did you experience through Senior Project? How has the experience changed you, or your concept of yourself? Consider skills, attitudes, habits, resources, capabilities,, etc. Are you more confident of your abilities? 

My dance and theatre skills are stronger. I also learned to get out of my comfort zone by taking different dance classes and directing for the first time. I learned what dance styles I like the most and what theatre pieces I feel best in. Lastly I learned to be less uncertain of myself while doing art. 

1. Has your Senior Project experience influenced your future planning in terms of work, education, or the development of personal interests?

I do want to incorporate theatre and dance into my career. I either want to be a drama and dance teacher or I want to be a therapist that does drama and dance therapy. This senior project has allowed me to realize that performance art is so important to me. 

1. When you reflect on the entire process, of what are you most proud? Least?

I am most proud that I was able to take many dance classes a week while choreographing my dance piece. These classes pushed me both mentally and physically and I am happy that I didn’t give up when it got tiring. I am least proud that in the beginning of directing, I was very hesitant to take the lead as this was my first time directing.   

1. What is the one thing you want your audience to learn or understand from your presentation on Senior Project Evening?

I want them to understand how you can use dance and theatre to show your own personal identity and/or your emotions. I want them to know that performance art is more than just being good but about exploring a part of yourself. 

1. How might you demonstrate your learning?

I want to demonstrate my learning by telling them how I answered my essential question and showing them at least one of my pieces and explaining how it relates to my artistry.