Jared Allen, a senior at Elon University, has chased his passion for performing throughout the years. In an age where there is a large amount of pressure on students to pursue more “traditional” careers, Allen’s chosen path is refreshing.
Allen is a native of Campbell, N.Y., and attended Campbell-Savona Central School prior to coming to Elon in pursuit of his BFA in acting. Since coming to Elon, Allen has been in numerous performances including “All My Sons,” “Cloud Nine” and “Much Ado About Nothing,” in addition to being a member of a student improvisation group.
He started acting in the fourth grade, but Allen says that, even when he wasn’t performing, he enjoyed engaging in other creative activities. “As far back as I can remember, [I’ve] wanted to be a performer. I need to do what I’m good at and what inspires me,” Allen said.
The aspect of performing Allen finds most captivating is the audience. “It’s important for the actor to do what he or she does for themselves because you have to tell your story, work on your craft and your art without the need of approval from the audience. But the best thing is when the audience inspires you and moves you forward,” Allen said.
He also notes that the performance should be focused on “what you have to say, your characters and the story you have to tell. We’re learning specific skills [at Elon], but learning how to tell a story through them is the art form.”
Although the performing arts program is challenging, it prepares students for future careers in the arts. Throughout the year, students put on three main stage plays run by professional directors and designers who have worked in the field. “We are going through at lightening speed [producing plays]. It’s the closest thing to being in a professional company that Elon offers,” Allen said.
At this point, Allen aspires to perform on Broadway one day. When asked specifically what kind of performing arts he wants to pursue, Allen admits he isn’t sure. “The reason I’m so uncertain is I don’t know how specifically I want to contribute to the world of art yet, but I know that my acting degree will help me with whatever I need. It’s important to realize that my degree doesn’t mean I can only do one area of performance.”
This year, Allen has gone beyond only acting and has just finished working on his senior thesis for the Honors Fellows, titled “Lost in the Limelight,” which depicts the life of a vaudevillian comedian. His senior thesis debuted in February.