A day in the life
Ellen Denny talks about fourth year
“I have learned so many new skills and acquired the confidence to believe in myself as a performer.
‘More than I could have ever hoped for’
Growing up in London, Ont., Ellen Denny was conveniently surrounded by the performing arts. In her hometown, there was the London Fringe Festival and there was also the nearby world-renowned Stratford Shakespeare Festival.
“My parents took me to a lot of plays and concerts growing up, so I have always loved and appreciated the Canadian performing arts scene,” says the combined honours in music (voice) and theatre student.
Besides being a spectator, Ellen was also heavily involved in choirs, music lessons and dance classes growing up.
In high school, she started participating in community theatre productions, which is what got her interested in studying acting in university.
No regrets
Ellen chose Dalhousie because it would allow her to study music and theatre at the same time. It’s a decision she doesn’t regret.
“My experience at Dalhousie has been more than I could have ever hoped for,” she says. “I have learned so many new skills and acquired the confidence to believe in myself as a performer.”
Ellen says the professors are “terrific sources of inspiration.”
“They take my goals seriously and are there to support me every step of the way,” she says.
But what really stands out for her is the supportive atmosphere Dalhousie offers, not from just the faculty, but also the students.
“The performing arts are a naturally competitive field, but at Dalhousie I have always felt safe and supported,” she says. “I have also had a lot of performance opportunities, which is arguably the most important aspect of a performing arts program.”
