For Anya Okechukwu ‘25, theater and music have been integral parts of her life since she was young. She was first introduced to her passion in fourth grade when she was given a flyer for a theater company nearby. 

“My first show was Seussical, and I pretty much got hooked from there,” Okechukwu said.

Since then, Okechukwu has been in numerous performances outside and inside the Baldwin School. Her favorite show she performed in was the Baldwin School’s production of Chicago last year. In this year’s production of Mean Girls, she will play “Damian,” a role many would agree is perfect for her. 

As well as musical theatre, Okecukwu has been part of the acapella group, the B-Flats since 10th grade, and Baldwin’s theater club, Maskers, since 9th grade. 

This year, Okechukwu was selected as one of the Senior Heads of Maskers. She believes one of the most important responsibilities in this position is helping students collaborate and gain confidence. 

“If you‘re not confident, people can see it,” Okechukwu said.

Additionally, Maskers heads are in charge of getting students involved in theater. This year, they have been working with Baldwin’s drama teacher, Mr. Ben Dibble, on integrating the International Thespian Society program with Baldwin. This program helps track students’ work with drama and gives them credit and awards for their accomplishments.

“It’s a really cool program,” Okechukwu said. She described that so many people are apprehensive about joining Maskers or being in the school musical because they “don’t know what they’re good at yet, and they don’t realize that they can do other things than sing or dance… there are so many things to do backstage”. 

While some students may struggle to manage their schoolwork when committing to play practices and performances, Okechukwu thrives under pressure and finds balance.

“I’m more productive when I’m busy,” she said. “The set schedule forces me to set time aside to do my work.”

When asked for advice for those starting in drama or music, Okechukwu offered reassurance. 

“Just know that being nervous is normal,” she said. “A lot of people see me perform and assume I don’t have any stage fright, and that’s just not true. I will always be nervous before performing, that’s just part of it,” She said. “When I perform, I am able to take myself out of the character so I can use their confidence and their emotions to play the role right.”

Okechukwu is also deeply loved and appreciated by her teachers and peers. “Anya is a joyful, dynamic, and incisive young woman,” wrote Mr. Ben Dibble in an email. “She has an amazing ability to invest in any character she is playing while maintaining a keen awareness of, and connection to, the audience.”

Her peer and castmate, Amelia Dennis ’25, echoed this sentiment. 

“I think Anya has a certain vulnerability and authenticity that really just shines through in all of her art,” she said.

Anya Okechukwu’s dedication to her craft as both a singer and actress is truly inspiring, and Baldwin is fortunate to have such a talented and committed performer. Don’t miss her upcoming performance in Mean Girls later this year!