Fresh Focus: Abby Varkalis

Abby Varkalis is prepped and ready for her freshman year. This actor from Lockport, Illinois is majoring in Digital Media Productions and minoring in Theatre, and it wouldn't be a surprise to us if she took over the stage.

According to Varkalis, she joined theater because she loves to act like someone else. It is exciting for her to learn about a character and wonder what their personality would be like. She first graced the stage at the age of 10 and at that moment, she knew that she found where she belonged. The stage just felt like a second home to her.

Throughout her theatrical career, she has been in multiple Christmas productions, Edgar Allen Poe shows, and a couple of musicals. However, when asked what her favorite show was, she couldn't tell you.

"I love them all because I got to be a different person each time," Varkalis explained. "I love picking apart a character's personality."

On the other hand, picking a favorite memory and character was no issue. Her all-time favorite memory was when she was allowed to engage in a stage fight and her favorite character was the Masque of Red Death from an Edgar Allan Poe play. As the Masque of Red Death she was able to take off her mask under a spotlight and reveal how the plague had taken over her character's body.

Varkalis had several reasons for choosing St. Ambrose for her post-secondary education, and the amazing theatre and radio/TV broadcasting programs were certainly on that list of reasons. She additionally loved the atmosphere that campus had to offer because she thought everyone here was friendly and welcoming.

Besides joining theater, she also joined the lacrosse team where she plays the position of midfield. When she has a moment of freetime, she likes to sing, dance, and take walks. After finishing her education, she would love to get a broadcasting job, either on TV or radio.

The department is absolutely thrilled to have Varkalis. Hopefully she will begin to see Galvin as her new home away from home in the near future.