KAYLA MONSON

Kayla Monson is a former Stagelighter! She is currently residing in Fullerton, California and is currently attending Biola University, one of the top film schools in the nation and is enrolled in the Cinema Media Arts program studying film with a concentration in production. She hopes to work in the industry post grad. She is actively pursuing photography on the side, for it is one of her passions. She’s currently taking pictures for friends/family in hopes to one day open up to different opportunities to take photos as a job. While her initial interest was in performing, she has discovered a passion for technical theater. This shift has led her to explore roles behind the scenes, such as production, A2, makeup, stage management, & marketing. Which recently got her the J Ray Award for Marketing in a Musical, for her work she completed in Fullerton Union high school’s production of Chicago. She would also love to help with live theater in a technical position. These experiences are helping her blend her creative and technical interests, preparing her for a versatile career in the arts and entertainment industry.

Kayla was with Stagelight for 10 years, since they opened in 2013. Her 10 years at Stagelight Performing Arts significantly contributed to her development that are essential for what she does now. Over the years Kayla learned communication skills and valued the conversations with teachers. Engaging in various performances and roles fostered a creative mindset and the ability to think on her feet, which is crucial for generating diverse and innovative ideas for film projects. Working with teachers and peers taught Kayla the importance of teamwork and collaboration, skills that are vital in creating new ideas. Performing in front of audiences built her confidence and ability to work under pressure. Overall, her time at Stagelight Performing Arts provided a strong foundation in communication, creativity, collaboration, and confidence, all of which are crucial in her current role.

Kayla studied Acting, Musical Theater, Group Vocal, Jazz, Ballet, Contemporary/Modern, Broadway Jazz, Tap, Acting for Camera, Production, Improv, Acapella, & Private Vocal at Stagelight. One of her favorite in-class memories at Stagelight was getting to work with Lexi Mayo & Katelyn Higueros, her fellow seniors over the years in all her classes and shows. She loved the bond and friendship they were able to have together. One of her favorite on-stage memories at Stagelight was getting to preform her last Stagelight Sings. She thought it was such a rewarding day after years of lessons and getting to thank her teacher, Ms. Hailee for all the hard work she has put in. She also wants to give a big thank you for the private vocal lessons over the years that led her to play dream roles and guided her through all chapters in her life.

“Go out of your comfort zone! I was not used to acting on the spot and when I joined Improv with Mr. Phil, I gained a new level of confidence then led me to do better at auditions and callbacks because I felt prepared and ready to take on a task. I also took ballet, thought at first it was hard with my disability. It helped me excel in different genres of dance, and I gained knowledge and respect for dance that led me to be a better dancer and get roles I never thought were possible.” – Kayla Monson