Today we’d like to introduce you to Cheryl Ann Sanders.
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
Born and raised in Evansville, Indiana, I’ve been on stage since I was 3 years old. I went to Webster Conservatory in St. Louis, Missouri and have my BFA in musical theatre performance. I traveled around the country working in regional theaters, and did the whole Chicago and NYC living thing you do as a college graduate. I taught theatre classes, directed and choreographed at several southern Indiana schools and universities.
Then, in 2010, I ran away to join the circus! I had a contract with Cirque du Soleil and performed in La Nouba at Downtown Disney/Disney Springs until it’s closure at the end of 2017.
I like to say that I’m semi-retired and perform now for special events around Orlando. I also give lectures, workshops and master classes around the country for different theatre programs and universities and other companies based in non-verbal communication, character movement, and body positivity.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
I think the road to success is always bumpy and you definitely get a bit lost sometimes on the way… but you always end up where you’re meant to be. Any struggles and setbacks I encountered just made me that much stronger, more determined, and who I am today.
There is still a lot of “fat phobia” when it comes to entertainment. And even though my most treasured roles have been booked because of my talent AND the way I look, it would still be nice to earn a part that wasn’t necessarily written with a physical description in play.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I love creating characters and telling stories. I’ve been so lucky to be a part of so many cool productions and events, but traveling to Mexico to teach at an international theatre festival a few years ago rates pretty high. Being part of La Nouba’s history is also very humbling and a definite high point of my resume. As a performer, there is nothing like that rush of adrenaline as you finish a performance and know you’ve left everything out there on stage.
I think because I’ve been on both sides of the table (teaching/directing and performing) I enjoy the entire process of building a production a bit more. I take nothing for granted and truly love the connection that live theatre brings us.
I think one of the coolest and proudest moments is when I see that “light bulb” turn on for a student I’m working with. To know they will leave my class with something new that they didn’t have before is extremely rewarding.
How can people work with you, collaborate with you or support you?
I’m always looking for inspiration and projects/people that will benefit from my skill set and energy, but will also teach me something at the same time!
How can people collaborate with me? Just ask! The universe is pretty good about bringing people that we need into our lives at just right moment.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.CherylAnnSanders.com
- Instagram: @cherylannsanders
