Ariella Serur.

By. Kevin Ray Johnson (Staff Writer for OnStage Blog)

It goes a long way in how you make someone feel in this industry. Ariella Serur is truly one of those artists you want in your show. They are truly one of the kindest people I have ever had the privilege of working with. Their talent is truly endless. Currently performing as a Standby in 1776 at American Repertory Theatre (A.R.T.), other credits for Ariella include - RENT (Maureen) at The Redhouse Arts Center, Gypsy(Louise) at The Hangar Theatre, Grand Concourse (Emma) at Theatre Horizon, as well as appearing in many workshops of new works throughout the years. Ariella is an artist that is truly determined to create radical, collaborative, rightfully inclusive art that inspires resilience and helps others feel they’re not alone (And she is also one hell of a tap-dancing bookworm!). I am beyond honored to feature this talented performer and even better person!

How old were you when you knew you wanted to be a Performer?

I think I was four years old when I saw a production of The Nutcracker at the community theatre in my town. After the show, I remember looking at my mom and saying, "I want to do that" and she replied, "and one day you can." (Go, my mom!) For better or for worse, I had been pretty tunnel-visioned toward this career ever since, the only long gaps being to travel, and I completely stepped away from the industry during the pandemic.

Where did you study? Are there any mentors that genuinely helped make you the Amazing Performer you are today?

I went to Ithaca College and was in their Musical Theatre BFA program. My favorite professors from my time there were Susannah Berryman and Catherine Weidner but I'd say the current mentor who has impacted me the most in this industry is Jen Waldman and the Jen Waldman Studio community in NYC. I also love my voice teacher, Aimée Steele.

Congratulations on 1776! What an amazing and fresh take on this show. How has your journey and time been with this Musical?

My journey has been amazing and challenging. I have never been a standby on a production before and it is a huge challenge to learn four tracks in a show almost entirely through watching versus doing.

It's also been an interesting experience because this company is attempting to forge a new way forward in the theatre industry. We try not to give in to the mentality of "the show must go on" and, instead, encourage each other to listen to our physical and mental health first and foremost when assessing if we can go on for a certain performance. Because of this, the standbys have been on a lot and it's been amazing to watch the company come together to support each other in this way night after night.

I also have the unique experience of being in this show with my partner(!!) which has been a total blast, and I think we've all made a cool production.

Are there any other shows, performances, or moments in your career that will always stick out and be near and dear to your heart?

My most meaningful night of performing, hands down is a concert I did of all original songs from a musical I'm writing with my partner, Sav Souza called "We Start In Manhattan: A New Queer Musical". We filled Green Room 42 with friends and family, and Tik Tok fans, and debuted music from our very queer new musical for the very first time. I've never written before and developing this piece, especially with someone I love, is a true joy in my life.

What advice would you give any young artist who would like a career in the performing arts?

1.) Be your own biggest fan, always. For the moments where you can't maintain that attitude, surround yourself with people who can remind you of your brilliance.

2.) This journey might take way longer than you expected. If the course feels good, stay the course. If something else lights you up, do that.

3.) Create a full life for yourself outside of this industry. Fill your days with things you love, versus filling your days exclusively with auditions/careers to do one single thing you love.

4.) I always rolled my eyes when people said this to me, but I've personally found that making my work has provided me with a greater sense of meaning, security, creativity, and autonomy as an actor in this industry. Give it a shot if you'd like!

1776 will be running until July 24th at The American Repertory Theatre. For more information, make sure you visit -https://americanrepertorytheater.org/shows-events/1776-revival/; and to learn more about Ariella, visit their website at -https://www.ariellaserur.com

Ariella Serur discusses 1776, Working w/ Partner Sav Souza & Being your Biggest Fan!

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