Lauren Hawkins

Lauren Hawkins, another veteran playmaker, is an amazing actor and leader within the group. In "Our Place" she plays a young woman navigating relationships and love.

 Over the years how have your experiences in the playmakers challenged, inspired, or shaped you as an artist and person?

My experience this year has been outstanding. Traveling with this group to NCTC and SETC has shaped my senior year, as well as my theater background. Meeting new people and having a chance to view other productions, as well as receive critique for work I helped produce. It's been a major influence on who I am as a person and my work as an actor. 

Do you have any advice for incoming playmakers?

The advice I would give is to try to let yourself grow as much as possible. Whatever year you're in, drama is going to occur, and that's fine. Just focus on you and your work, and what makes you happy. 

How would you describe Playmakers as a community?

I would describe the community as any friend group. Of course, there are going to be hiccups. But at the end of the day, you all have worked together and collaborated to create something you're proud of. You all bond throughout the year, and make memories. All of you have spent hours actively trying to reach your goal, and the commitment pays off. 

Reflecting back on your time in the program, are you satisfied with your achievements as an individual and group?

I'm incredibly proud and honored to be part of the group that achieved going to SETC, as well as superior marks on our performance. My time at Playmakers has been incredibly satisfying. 

Are there any fond memories of Playmakers you would like to share?

One of my main memories is, at every judge announcement, we would all link hands and wait. It was such a strong moment of unity and pride, being able to celebrate something we all have put so much into. I don't think I'll ever be able to replicate that feeling.