Ellen Denny (BA'12)
‘More than I could have ever hoped for’
I learned so many new skills and acquired the confidence to believe in myself as a performer.
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 was more than I could have ever hoped for,” she says. “I 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 took my goals seriously and were there to support me every step of the way,” she says.
But what really stood 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 always felt safe and supported,” she says. “I also had a lot of performance opportunities, which is arguably the most important aspect of a performing arts program.”