Derby High School’s graduating senior, Olivia Prue, is set to pursue her passion for the performing arts at the esteemed Liverpool Institute for Performing Arts (LIPA) in England. This autumn, she will join the institution founded by Sir Paul McCartney, renowned for its rigorous training in the creative arts.
From a young age, Prue demonstrated a strong inclination towards acting, participating in numerous theatre productions and films across Kansas, including “The Contested Plains” and the recently premiered “Sod and Stubble.” Her dedication and talent have culminated in her acceptance into LIPA, an institution known for its selective admissions process.
LIPA offers a comprehensive curriculum focused exclusively on the performing arts, allowing students like Prue to immerse themselves in disciplines such as acting, singing, and dancing. The institute’s approach ensures that students receive intensive training without the distraction of general education courses.
Prue’s journey to LIPA involved applying to 23 universities, submitting audition tapes, and attending in-person auditions. Her acceptance into LIPA stands as a testament to her skill and determination. She expressed enthusiasm about the opportunity to train in an environment dedicated entirely to the performing arts.
Looking ahead, Prue aspires to combine her love for performance with travel, aiming to work with touring companies and on cruise ships. Her contributions to the arts community in Derby, including involvement with Music Theatre Wichita and Forum Theatre, have left a lasting impact.
As she prepares to embark on this new chapter, Prue acknowledges the support and foundation provided by her hometown. “Derby has truly raised me,” she reflects, carrying the spirit of her community with her to Liverpool.