Tori Murray ’22 is a four-year Senior from Westfield, New Jersey. She is involved in theatre and is on the board of Hotchkiss Dramatic Association (HDA). Murray plays Donna in Mamma Mia! and has participated in previous school productions. In 2015, Murray starred in an off-broadway production of Ruthless! the musical  for two years.

Did you have any experience with theatre before coming to this school?

I started acting professionally when I was nine and decided to come to Hotchkiss to continue pursuing theater at a high level without compromising my high school experience. I’ve always loved theater but I was also looking to expand my world and fall in love with new things.

How has the school helped you grow in theatre? What has the school been able to provide you with to excel in your designated interest?

What I love about theatre at Hotchkiss is the freedom. Between mainstages, clubs, classes, and blackboxes, I have always felt that I could do anything I wanted and make any ideas come to life. Thinking back on the last few years and all the projects I have been a part of, I am so grateful to have experienced so many different kinds of theatre and to have had the opportunity to learn so much.

What has been your favorite moment of the arts? 

My favorite moment of the arts at Hotchkiss was opening night of my first mainstage musical back in Prep year. It seemed like the whole school showed up to support us and as a new student, it was really the first time I felt like I was a part of the school.

How did you feel about the Mamma Mia! Show? Was it your favorite show so far?

Mamma Mia! has been my favorite mainstage so far because of how many people got involved. I love seeing new people join the theatre: the cast and crew was made up of all kinds from different grades and experience levels. I think everyone had a blast, and the support we felt from the community was overwhelming.