Meet the Interns – Elana the Uninhibited
This month, we’re focusing on sharing some of the Faces of the Union with you, because the best part about being a Union member is being able to share share experiences that will last a lifetime with other people. Over the next few issues, we’re going to be releasing interviews with four Wisconsin Union Theater interns and Terrace Views contributors.
Elana Siegel
What’s your year in school, and what’s you major?
I’m a senior working toward a B.A. in International Studies
How did you become interested in working for Wisconsin Union Theater (WUT), and how long have you worked here?
I came across the job listing for the Theater on the UW’s job center in August of 2010. I’ve always been involved in many different types of the arts. I thought it would be wonderful to use my writing skills and marketing ideas in a job that actively contributed to the fantastic arts scene here in Madison.
What’s your favorite memory of a show here?
Oh, there are too many! Most recently, Béla Fleck and the Flecktones were fantastic. Their technical skill as instrumentalists was amazing and they seemed to have so much fun performing. Dianne Reeves was amazing also. She has such a beautiful, rich voice and she was a scream backstage.
How would you describe your job at WUT? Is it anything like other jobs you’ve held?
This job is definitely not like any other job I’ve held! As a marketing and communications intern, I write in many different forms, create partnerships with campus and community organizations and promote our shows in the community.
What’s been your favorite part of your work here?
I don’t know if I can narrow it down to one favorite part, but something I do love is being around the artists backstage and chatting with them after the shows. As an artist myself, I am interested in their artistic process and how they approach performance. I also love coming to work, because everyone is the office is friendly and fun.
What do you plan to do after you graduate? How do you think your experiences at WUT will help you in the future?
After I graduate, I plan to travel abroad to teach English, learn indigenous forms of dance and music, and mountain climb. Eventually, I plan to go to graduate school in communications and international development/policy with the goal of working in communications for an NGO or public office. My experience here is definitely going to help me. On the practical side, I have learned many of the technical communications and marketing skills. I also am learning how to outreach, create community, cooperate in team settings, and work at something I’m passionate about.
What are you excited for this season?
I’m really pumped for Pilobolus. I’m attracted to their creativity and willingness to push the boundaries of dance.
Interview by Alexis Brown, Union Theater Marketing Intern
