Over the summer, senior Ariana White had the opportunity to work at LegoLand New York as a character performer and sidekick. Legoland New York is considered the ultimate LEGO theme park destination for kids ages 2–12 and their families.
Ariana’s duties as a Sidekick and a Character Performer varied with each role. As a Sidekick, she would help a Character Performer get ready, as well as ensure the safety of both the Character Performer and guests as they interacted. As a Character Performer, she dressed up in different costumes and went out to meet and greet guests. White was excited that she was able to work two shows as a Character Performer. On those days she worked on the Go Xtreme Show Track, which involved four performances of the Go Xtreme Stunt Show. White played the role of the Producer, which involved a mixture of acting and dancing.
This was White’s first year working in the show entertainment space at Legoland. She really enjoyed the improvisational aspect of performance when interacting with guests or building off of fellow performers. She also enjoyed the collaborative nature of the work, making connections with guests and fellow employees. Overall White, was able to work on her storytelling skills and grow as an actor, which she can apply in her roles here at Merrimack College for the VPA Department’s and OnStagers’ upcoming productions.