Avelyn Simons
By Avelyn Simons
Theater-Maker Who Loves the Work Onstage, Backstage, and in the Classroom
Avelyn says [artificial intelligence] matters if used properly: "If you use it as a tool and you use it properly... I think it's good."
Avelyn says [education] absolutely matters: "It's so important that, everybody is able to use their own brain to function in society and get to learn about different people and different things, and b...
Avelyn says [guitar] matters: "I've been playing since I was 10, I think. So, it definitely matters and it's a wonderful instrument."
Avelyn says [mental health] super matters: "Life's a journey and being healthy and having people to help you through it is a big deal."
Avelyn believes [performing arts] matter for everyone: "Whether you're an audience member or an actor or someone off stage, it impacts you regardless."
Avelyn says [pets] matter: "They definitely teach you how to take care of something, because when you're a child, you're very self-centered."
Avelyn says [teaching] matters because of the lasting impact teachers have: "Just knowing the contact they still have with their students and the impact they have on their students, and me too. It's a...
Avelyn believes [travel] matters: "I think it's super important to be, culturally aware of what's going on in the world and getting to see places firsthand."
Avelyn says [coffee] doesn't matter to her: "I really tried, but I really don't like coffee. I really tried. I'm so tired sometimes, but I just, it doesn't do it for me."
Theater-Maker Who Loves the Work Onstage, Backstage, and in the Classroom
Theater has always been a huge part of my life. I’ve been lucky to perform at places like NJPAC, Paper Mill Playhouse, and the Edinburgh Fringe Festival, and in shows like Les Misérables, Into the Woods, and Rent. I was part of the Paper Mill Broadway Show Choir for several years as a soloist, featured dancer, and swing, which gave me the chance to perform all over the state. I’m also a musician, and I love using those skills to support the stories I tell onstage and in the classroom. In recent years, I’ve focused a lot on directing and teaching. I started a theater program at Immaculata High School, and within two years, our productions began receiving statewide recognition. "Once" earned me Best Director nominations from both the BergenPAC Awards and the Central Jersey Marquee Awards, which each include 50 to 60 high schools across New Jersey. We also received nominations for Best Overall Production, Best Ensemble, etc, and a win for Best Leading Actress. I teach a mix of classes including drama, public speaking, and film, and I direct our full season of shows. I care deeply about making theater a place where students feel seen, challenged, and inspired — and I’d love the chance to talk about that journey on your podcast.
