Benjamin Pluska

Ben, a sophomore at Enloe High School in Raleigh, North Carolina, applied for a scholarship to attend a musical theatre summer intensive in 2016. He expresses his gratitude for the opportunity to attend the University of North Carolina School of the Arts, Summer Drama Intensive

For Ben, theater is more than just a term with a fluid definition. It represents a way of life that he finds both captivating and complex. He believes there are two types of people in the theatrical world: those who merely warp theater into a commercialized and inauthentic realm, and those who genuinely live and understand its power. Ben aspires to be among the latter group, a pioneer for the art of musical theater. He fears becoming someone who distorts the essence of theater and lacks the genuine connection and warmth it evokes.

The concept of "art" holds great significance for Ben. He sees it as a means of changing perspectives and making sense of the world. His goal is to use his talent in musical theater to heal and guide those who are hurting or lost. Ben expresses his deep appreciation for the scholarship opportunity, recognizing it as a stepping stone on his path to becoming the best version of himself and creating impactful art that touches and transforms lives.