Ariana performing as Elle Woods during 'Legally Blonde: The Musical' in 2023.
Ariana Noelle Gepte has come a long way – from playing a chocolate bubble in a stage version of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory as a child, to lead character Elle Woods in Legally Blonde: The Musical last year. So it’s fitting that her work in the performing arts sector is being acknowledged with a nomination for a Blues and Golds Award.
The Blues and Golds Awards are an annual event run by the University and OUSA to celebrate sporting and cultural achievements. Silver awards acknowledge the exceptional work done by students within the community.
Ariana graduated from Otago recently with a Bachelor of Performing Arts specialising in Musical Theatre Voice. She says there are many things she loves about performing.
“I love being able to transform and bring life to another character while still adding my own personality. It’s so fun becoming a hybrid of yourself mixed with a character who is completely different. It gives you the opportunity to experience a different perspective.”
Performing means constantly evolving and growing as a person, she says.
“You’re always trying and learning new things to enhance your performance. Plus, the thrill of being onstage in front of an audience is both daunting and rewarding.”
Ariana started formal vocal training in 2020 under the tutelage of Beth Waite at the Voice Lab New Zealand. Not too long after that, Ariana was cast as Elle Woods in Legally Blonde: The Musical - a highlight of her career so far.
“It is a role that is known for being incredibly demanding vocally and physically as you don’t leave the stage for more than a minute for most of the show, it was a great challenge for me.”
Elle is a role that traditionally hasn’t cast inclusively so playing the role as a person of colour actor was a rewarding experience, Ariana says.
“My younger self would have loved to see representation like that.”
It feels “amazing” to have been nominated for a Blues and Golds Award, she says.
“I feel that there aren’t many opportunities to be recognised for work in this industry particularly for younger performers in New Zealand.”
The performing arts industry is “not for the faint hearted”, she says, and she is grateful for everyone who has supported her performing arts journey thus far.
Ariana started ballet classes when she was three years old before branching out in musical theatre, jazz, hip-hop and tap dancing.
“I also loved to sing, so I joined my school choirs and musicals,” she says.
Growing up, her family enjoyed watching musicals on their TV and local productions.
“It wasn’t hard to become inspired to take part.”