For West Haven High School senior Nicolas Console and junior Grace Greenwood, the arts have provided opportunities to develop their interests and create memorable experiences throughout high school. Nicolas serves as vice-president of the West Haven High School Theatre Workshop, while Grace plays the flute in the school band. Although their programs are different, both students have spent years pursuing their interests and building experiences they will carry with them beyond graduation.
Nicolas has been involved in theatre since fifth grade and joined the West Haven High School Theatre Workshop as a freshman. Since then, he has participated in nearly every production and attended most of the group's fundraisers. “Theatre has probably been my overall greatest passion,” Nicolas said. Grace has been involved in band for five years, playing the flute throughout her time in the program.
Nicolas's favorite memory is his freshman year production of Newsies, in which he played Les, a young newsboy who works to help pay the bills at home. “All of the seniors were so welcoming and made the theatre feel like a home to me,” Nicolas said. “The whole experience felt euphoric and almost magical. This show was the absolute peak of my career, and I’m so grateful to have been part of it alongside my amazing cast and crew.” For Grace, one experience stands out from her years in band: “My favorite memory was doing my first halftime show for the football game.”
Away from their arts programs, both students have other commitments they take pride in. Nicolas has maintained a GPA above 4.0 and stayed in the top 50 of his class while taking Advanced Placement and Honors courses, even with rehearsals that sometimes keep him at school until late in the evening. Grace also makes time for responsibilities outside of band. “I'm proud that I work outside of the band in my free time,” Grace said.
Looking ahead, Nicolas plans to attend the University of Connecticut and major in business. Having worked in construction with his father since he was eight years old, he is considering eventually growing his own business connected to a trade. He is also considering a minor in theatre. Grace also plans to continue her education after graduation. “After high school, I plan to attend college and explore my interests as I decide what I want to study,” Grace said.
Support from others has helped both students throughout their journeys. Nicolas credits his mom for encouraging him to continue theatre when he had doubts and considered quitting. She has also helped with fundraising and driven him and his friends to events. “She is my #1 fan, and I love her very much,” Nicolas said. Grace credits her band director, Ms. Lupacchino, with having an important influence on her life. “Ms. Lupacchino, my band director, has made me the person I am today,” Grace said.
Through their involvement in theatre and band, Nicolas and Grace have made the arts an important part of their high school experiences. As they prepare for the next stage of their lives, they will take with them the memories, relationships, and experiences they have gained through their time at West Haven High School.