For GWUOHS senior Irene K., performing has never been just a hobby – it’s a lifelong passion for her. From her early days in ballet, starring in local musical productions, and acting alongside names like Zac Efron and Sherry Cola, Irene has built a career that bridges dance, theatre, and film – all driven by her love of storytelling, movement, and performance.
“I’ve always loved performing since I started dancing at age two,” Irene said. “But I realized I loved character-driven and storytelling dancing instead of just ballet or straight dancing, so I decided to pursue musical theater.”
That discovery shaped everything that followed. Over the years, her love of storytelling has led her to roles across the screen and stage. She has appeared alongside actors such as Zac Efron and Sherry Cola while continuing to star in musical theatre productions that let her combine acting, singing, and dance.
Her favorite role so far has been Gretchen Wieners in a local production of “Mean Girls: The Musical.”
“She’s very different from me, so it was fun to explore outside of my comfort zone,” Irene said. “It helped me express myself in a way I don’t often do.”
As a performer, Irene describes herself as both “connected and free.”
“I like to really understand what I’m trying to or want to convey through my dancing or performing,” Irene said. “Being free lets me perform fully.”
That combination of discipline and freedom defines her creative approach, especially now that she serves as the dance director at GWUOHS’s Performing Arts Club (PAC). Her goal this year is to use that platform to bring dancers together.
“My biggest goal is to showcase all of the great dancers in the branch,” Irene said. “We all love different styles, so I want to make sure we collaborate and create something we’re proud of.”
Balancing dance, theater, and academics isn’t easy, but Irene’s work ethic keeps her steady.
“It’s definitely a lot of work, but I’ve done it for so long that I’m used to it,” Irene said. “I make sure to focus on one thing at a time. That way, I can prepare the best I can for performances and auditions or turn in schoolwork that’s my best work.”
Being an online student has also made her career possible, allowing her the flexibility to be on set or practice often without any scheduling conflicts. Her days follow a steady rhythm.
“I dance almost every day, usually in the evenings,” Irene said. “So I make sure to finish schoolwork in the morning, and then I have a few hours between dance to rest or do stuff in my free time.”
Through years of experience, Irene has also learned that consistency and passion matter more than anything else.
“There were times it was hard and stressful, and I wanted to quit,” Irene said. “But I realized I’d be sad if I did, since it’s truly my dream. I’m going to keep working hard to accomplish my dreams, and I hope to get into college for a BFA in musical theater.”
Looking ahead, Irene does not want to limit herself to one path. She sees herself being part of plays, musicals, movies, and more. She has experience on-stage and on-screen and loves both.
For Irene, her final year at GWUOHS also feels like a perfect chance to showcase her talents and connect with peers.
“I joined the Performing Arts Club to make the most of my last year,” Irene said. “I haven’t really branched out or talked to my peers since I was busy focusing on schoolwork and activities, so I assume lots of my classmates don’t really know me or my interests. I decided to show them off.”
Irene encourages all aspiring performers to always pursue their craft, no matter the circumstances. Although it has been a long journey for her since first entering the arts, she wouldn’t trade it for the world.
“Keep going toward what you love,” Irene said. “Even when it’s hard, don’t give up. You’ll thank yourself later.”
