The stage lights fade, but for some performers, the story never really ends. It just keeps leading them on and calling them back.
Senior, singer, actor, and dancer Trinity Murphy has committed to James Madison University for the Musical Theatre Program. Murphy’s passion for all three had led her to numerous theatrical accomplishments with WA’s own theater program, Westford Academy Theater Arts (WATA), and beyond.
When Murphy was younger, she wanted to be a K-9 police dog trainer; then, she realized that she preferred the arts and that they suited her more. She has been involved in theater for about ten years, since she was eight, with “Madagascar” being her first production.
Murphy also started playing lacrosse when she was young and continued to play throughout her junior year as a goalie. However, during her junior year, Murphy realized she wanted to focused solely on acting and dancing. Last year’s WATA production of the musical “SIX” only solidified her passion, deepening her connection to storytelling. “SIX” helped her realize the impact she could have through performance.
“I think it was the challenge of the character and the storytelling […] I realized, I want to tell stories. I want to get stories out there,” Murphy said.
Her dedication is proven in the long hours she spends rehearsing, often staying after school for six hours or more. Through these experiences, Murphy has learned how complex and eye opening characters can open the door to explore insecurities—both her own and others from a different perspective.
“It’s a hobby for other people, [but] it’s not just a hobby for me. It’s a passion. I think that’s one of the things that [helps me stand out from] other people,” Murphy said.
According to Murphy, she has been criticized for her passion for theater at WA. She added that she is the only one from WA pursuing theater in college.
“I’ve definitely been looked down on because of my decision,” Murphy said. “People are always like, ‘Why don’t you go for a real job that’ll get you money?’ and that’s not where I want to be.”
Even after performances end, Murphy’s connection to the stage does not. According to Murphy, she remembers sitting on stage and replaying the show again and again, showing her deep commitment to the arts.
Murphy has earned several accomplishments, which includes being a state champion for the scene partner contest for Massachusetts Educational Theater Guild (METG) and performing in the The Theatre at the Mount Awards (TAMY) opening number. Additionally she has been a Jimmy awards Massachusetts audition nominee, and part of the New York Conservatory for the Dramatic Arts (NYCDA) where she got a scholarship and was a participant for the summer.
According to Murphy, she hopes to see herself on stage somewhere in New York City in the future.
A major influence in Murphy’s journey has been WATA director Michael Towers, who supported Murphy both in and out of school theater programs. His help and support helped her build confidence and pursue theater at a higher level.
“Towers has always supported me in my decisions and my career in theater, whether it was at SSPA or it was here [at WA]. He has always helped me,” Murphy said.
According to Towers, Murphy is an exceptionally driven and focused individual.
“She gives every ounce of energy and focus [to her craft]. Trinity is an extremely hard working person.[…] She wants to be excellent at what she does. She’s such a success driven person and she has met so much success. […] She has something to say and that is what makes her great,” Towers said.
To those around Murphy, her impact goes farther than the stage. According to senior Sara Morey, Murphy is someone who inspires others.
“Being friends with Trinity has definitely changed my life for the better. She made me laugh on days that I felt down. Her confidence in herself is contagious and she’s helped me grow as a person and find my own confidence in myself,” Murphy said. “I’ve loved being friends with Trinity these past couple years. She makes me want to be a better person and I wouldn’t have it any other way.”
