Kamryn Oplinger

What companies/classes are you currently in?

Currently, I am a member and captain of the CATS Company here at CS. I also dance at my high school because I am apart of the FPAC program.

When did you start at Center Stage?

I started at CS when I was 6 years old.

Do you remember your first dance routine?

My first routine was with Marlowe Davis doing “Send in the Clowns.” It was my first ever production piece. I also did “These Boots Are Made For Walking” with Sue Garahan.

What was your Center Stage journey?

I began at CS with in the kittens company with Sue Garahan. From there I made it up the ladder beginning Jr CATS when I was 8 and becoming a CATS dancer when I was 11. I remained in CATS company from ages 11- present day.

Why has it been worth all of the energy you’ve put in to it and the sacrifices you’ve made?

I always feel very fortunate being able to do what I do. Yes at times it can be difficult to sacrifice so much to be at the studio all day everyday, but it is so worth it in the long run. From being able to take acting with Stephen or taking classes with successful alumni, I can honestly say CS prepares me for my future in college. I sometimes feel as if I am a step above from where others are because I was given opprritunies that other dancers don’t get to experience anywhere else.

Do you do other extracurricular activities?

Besides being a CS, I’m usually with my friends or at work.

Who are your role models?  Whose life and values, either from your personal life or famous people, would you like to emulate?

My biggest role model is my grandmother, Joan. She sacrifices everything for everyone with no question. She works at CS, makes dinner every night, and makes sure everyone in the house is ok. She is the strongest women I know and I love her dearly.

If you could get rid of one thing in the world, what would it be?

I know I’m expected to say world hunger or something like that, but I would get rid of twitter.

If you won Power Ball, how would it change your life?

I would try not to let it change my life, but I would be able to help others more and spend a little more on those I love.

Who has the career you would like to have?

Stephanie Klemons has the career I want. Being able to assistant choreograph or choreograph on Broadway in gerneral is the dream.

What’s your favorite movie and why?

My favorite movie right now is Birdbox because it was such a cool concept.

Favorite book?

*I LITERALLY DON’T READ but i’m embarrassed to say that so please don’t use the question lol*

TV Show you’re embarrassed to admit you used to watch?

Jersey Shore. I am in love with the Jersey Shore.

What makes you laugh?

My friends and family of course. My dog especially.

What do you have to tell us about your experiences in the cast of the big shows?  What was your first? Which was your favorite role?  Was there ever a disaster nearly averted?

My first show was Camp The Musical when I was 13. From there I did “Once Upon a Time” and *last years show but i don’t remember the name HAH*. This year I get to be apart of “Hollywood Shuffle” and I’m so excited for it being that it is my last one. Throughout my shows, the worst thing that happened when I did the little kids show and I missed my cue for the acting. But I made maybe 30 seconds after.

What’s next?

Next I’m off to Ohio State to major in dance and I couldn’t be more excited!

Where do you see yourself in 10 years?

I see myself doing something on the Broadway stage or teaching dance somewhere!

Will you come back to visit Center Stage, or are you gone for good when you’re out the door?

Of course I’ll visit. I know i’ll be missed too much.