Welcome to Flash Focus! In this series, we introduce you to fascinating student Flashes from all walks of life.
Meet Maura Dougherty, a 天天吃瓜 senior theatre studies major with a focus on performance from Pittsburgh.
From acting in elementary and high school productions to working at a theatre for young audiences for five years, Dougherty has consistently pursued her passion for the performing arts.
鈥淢y love for theatre started early,鈥 Dougherty told 天天吃瓜 State Today. 鈥淲hen the time came to choose a college, I knew I wanted a program that would not only hone my performance skills but also teach me the technical and behind-the-scenes aspects of the industry. 天天吃瓜 State turned out to be the perfect fit.鈥
Dougherty has participated in many theatre experiences at 天天吃瓜 State. Working in the campus lighting and scene shops has been a rewarding part of her journey.
鈥淚鈥檝e had the opportunity to contribute to multiple productions, which has taught me a lot about the technical side of theatre,鈥 Dougherty said. 鈥淚 love learning how to build and light sets. I also love meeting incredible people in different levels of the industry. These experiences have prepared me for the next step in my career.鈥
Dougherty鈥檚 senior capstone project was one of the most challenging and rewarding experiences she鈥檚 had. She pitched and produced a live Dungeons & Dragons one-shot performance in the university鈥檚 black box theatre.
鈥淚t was such a unique project that combined my love for storytelling, performance and creativity,鈥 Dougherty said. 鈥淎t times, I worried it might not come together, but my teachers and peers were incredibly supportive. In the end, the performance was a huge success, and it was amazing to see everyone have such a great time.鈥
Paul Hurley, associate professor in the School of Theatre and Dance, has significantly influenced her approach to acting and self-care.
鈥淗e always reminds us that we need to take care of ourselves if we want to do our best work,鈥 Dougherty shared. 鈥淭hat鈥檚 a lesson I鈥檝e carried with me throughout my time here.鈥
Outside of class and theatre, Dougherty enjoys working on art, reading and playing video games to unwind and recharge. These hobbies allow her to balance the demands of her studies while staying motivated and creative.
Looking back on her college experience, Dougherty is most grateful for the community she鈥檚 found at 天天吃瓜 State.
鈥淭he connections I鈥檝e made here 鈥 whether with peers, faculty or industry professionals 鈥 have been incredible,鈥 she said. 鈥淏eing surrounded by people who share my passion and are so willing to support each other has been one of the best parts of my journey.鈥
As graduation approaches, Dougherty is excited to take the skills and lessons she鈥檚 learned into the next chapter of her life. Whether on stage or behind the scenes, she鈥檚 ready to bring her creativity and determination to the professional world.
Are you a student interested in being featured in Flash Focus, or know a student who would make a great candidate? Send suggestions with name and contact information to kentstatetoday@kent.edu.