Magdalena Elizabeth Ford

2014 Musical Theatre Scholarship Recipient

Maggie's lifelong passion for theater has shaped her identity and provided a sense of belonging. From a young age, her mother recognized her affinity for the arts and ensured she was exposed to various forms of artistic expression, including Shakespeare and symphony performances. This early exposure led to Maggie's enrollment in a magnet arts school, which became her second home. Through theater, she has developed skills in dance, vocal performance, playwriting, and technical theater, as well as mastering multiple stringed instruments. Maggie has embraced a wide range of theatrical genres and has collaborated with school groups, teen-run theaters, and community theaters, participating in auditioned acting classes and advanced theater troupes.

For Maggie, acting is a transformative experience that allows her to view the world from different perspectives. Stepping into someone else's shoes and embodying their character provides her with an opportunity for personal growth and self-discovery. She has relished the chance to portray diverse roles, including the Cheshire cat in Alice in Wonderland and Margo in To See the Stars. Through theater, Maggie has not only learned valuable lessons but also developed a deep love for the art form.

As a sophomore in high school, Maggie is already looking ahead to her future in the arts and has set her sights on prestigious colleges that specialize in theater education. In her search, UNCSA (University of North Carolina School of the Arts) has exceeded her expectations. Recognized as one of the top 25 schools for the arts, UNCSA offers a remarkable BFA program. Maggie is particularly drawn to the school's three-week drama intensive, which allows aspiring artists to refine their skills and provides a glimpse into the college experience. The opportunity to make her stage larger and continue her artistic journey at UNCSA holds immense significance for Maggie, surpassing words to express her excitement and gratitude.