Q&A with non-acting major Sydney Syverson

Sydney Syverson as The With in "Into the Woods"
photo by Jamie Kluth

Fun fact about UP Theater: You don't have to be a major to audition for the plays!

Here's a Q&A with senior Sydney Syverson, a social work major, who acts in UP Theater productions.

Q: What made you audition for UP Theater?
Sydney Syverson: I've been doing community theatre since I was 7. My dad has always encouraged me to be involved in theatre and he's my biggest fan. I attended a performing arts high school in Las Vegas where I majored in theatre. This was not an exactly favorable experience for me so I kind of gave up on theatre once I graduated. After returning from Salzburg my junior year I realized how much I missed being on stage. I auditioned for the shows Spring semester of my junior year and was cast as Little Sally in "Urinetown." And it's been awesome ever since! I finally realized that this is how theatre is supposed to be - fun and with a theatre family who supports you whole heartedly.

Q: How has it been for you to act with UP Theater?
SS: It has been such an amazing experience. I was so tired of the politics of theatre from High School and all that nonsense that I wasn't sure I was ever going to enjoy it again. I was so wrong. I have made the closest friends in the theatre department - I have truly been blessed to be so welcomed into their family! I love them so much!

Q: What made you get into acting in the first place?
SS: My incredible father, Michael Syverson. He is my biggest fan and advocate. He has always encouraged me to further my interest in and pursue theatre. I really appreciate having such encouragement from my parents. They fly ip from Vegas to see every show I'm in. It's wonderful.

Q: What advice would you give to a non-major who would like to act?
SS: Do it! Just because you're not a major doesn't mean you won't be cast at all. Another piece of advice is to be outgoing! The theatre kids are really nice people, but they have been together since freshman year so you do have to kind of weasel your way into the group. But if you put forth the effort, they will love you!

Q: What shows and roles have you had at UP Theater?
SS: Little Sally in "Urinetown," Mrs. Gibbs in "Our Town," and now The Witch in "Into the Woods."

See Syverson in "Into the Woods" this week! 
Performances are tonight through Saturday at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday at 2:30 p.m.