With graduation right around the corner, it is important to celebrate our seniors as they complete or move on to continue their academic journeys. This semester, after completing his degree in the Performing Arts program, Jaden Carlisle will transfer to Elon University in North Carolina to complete his BFA in Acting.
Jaden began his career in theater at Fort Walton High School, where he enjoyed performing and directing shows for three years. A love of theater was something that made him unique among his family and friends, as they had never developed an interest in the participation or culture of the performing arts. Once he got started, however, the people in his life supported him wholeheartedly, a community that only grew after he graduated and transferred to the Gulf Coast.
During his time here at Gulf Coast, Jaden was involved in an impressive total of six productions, five of which he performed in. Recently, he played George in The Drowsy Chaperone and the Bridegroom in Blood Wedding. While he loved each character he got to play for many different reasons, the one that sticks out to him the most is Doug in Gruesome Playground Injuries. This role was unique for Jaden because of the character and the overall experience of performing in the show. For this performance, many different actors were playing the same characters at different times during the show’s run. Watching his peers have their own interpretation of the same characters was an incredible learning experience as an actor and a great time all around.
Jaden earned the Outstanding Scholar award at the Honors Convocation this week for his exemplary work in the program. Jaden’s advice for current and future Acting students includes believing in oneself, trusting the process, and having faith in those around you. He also wants them to remember that “acting is the most real thing you will ever do. Authenticity on the stage can make or break a performance. You have to be comfortable being vulnerable in front of an audience, but if you are, they’ll be right there with you, invested the whole time.” He is so grateful for the experiences and opportunities he had at Gulf Coast, but he is most thankful for the community of friends who have become family he will take with him for the rest of his life.
Congratulations to Jaden for his incredible work here at Gulf Coast, and best of luck in your future endeavors!
