'Fannie Lou' Musical

 As an actress, Emily Senkowsky sees herself as “the quirky best friend, like Penny inHairspray.”

Or, perhaps, like Pamela in “Scenes and Songs fromFannie Lou.”

Emily plays the role of Pamela in the upcoming voting rights-themed production. While not quite the best friend, Pamela certainly could be characterized as “quirky” in relation to her rural, 1960s, Southern environment. Needless to say, a few adjustments must be made, on both sides.

“I was very interested in the subject matter, this period in history,” said Emily about why she was among the more than 100 actresses who submitted to audition for the part.

Like any young actress beginning to establish her career, going on auditions has been a large part of Emily’s life since graduating from New York University in 2014. She concentrated in musical theater, earning a degree in vocal performance.

“I always loved singing,” said Emily. “I think musical theater is a beautiful way to tell a story.”

Emily regularly sang in choirs while growing up in Arlington, TX.

“When I was in third grade, I saw a community theater production of Oliverthat one of my good friends was in,” she said. “I said to my mom, ‘I want to take voice lessons.’”

Seeing that friend perform onstage cemented Emily’s career choice.

“I never really changed my mind,” she said.

 

Remembering her excitement about musical theater as a third-grader could be why Emily enjoys helping provide that magical experience for youngsters.

“My favorite thing is performing before kids. I especially love that. Especially kids who’ve never seen it [musical theater] before,” said Emily, who’s taught music to children and has had some experience with children’s theater.

These days, Emily is “trying to find myself” as she develops her career in New York City. She’s inspired by the work of actresses such as Waitress’s Jessie Mueller, one of her favorites.

“I saw her in On a Clear Day on Broadway when I was in school [at NYU]. I just loved her. I researched her to find out more about her,” said Emily, adding, “There’s an elegance about her. She’s very truthful in her performance – something I strive to be.”

While being in New York City brings its own unique challenges, the abundance of opportunities to see musicals, take classes and develop her craft are worth the move from Texas, she said. Ultimately, it gives her the chance to pursue her ultimate goal.

“I love to perform for people,” she said.