Meet the Student Directors – Annika H.

Encore Stage Team • April 23, 2025

I’d like to introduce the director of A Murdered Mystery, one of our Student Directed One-Acts, Annika H! Annika has been involved in Encore’s programs since she was 7 years old. We are excited to have Annika joining this team of student directors, so read on to learn more about her!

Encore: Why did you choose to be a director?

I’ve done over ten shows with Encore and even more classes and camps, so I was so excited to have the chance to direct a show and be on the inside.

Encore: Why did you choose the play you’re directing?

A Murdered Mystery is a short and comedic play within a play. I chose this because it gives the actors so much room for flexibility and creativity.

Encore: What has been your favorite part of the process so far?

So far, I have loved getting to connect with the actors and see the process from another perspective.

Encore: This season is Encore’s Season of Courage, what part of this season has taken courage for you to pull off?

As I am a freshman in high school, it has been difficult to manage schoolwork with shows. Coming into the process, I was a bit scared to see how it would all play out. It certainly took great courage to keep going, but I’m so glad I did because it has been so much fun!

Encore: What are your favorite parts of theatre?

Throughout my childhood, I have consistently loved acting and singing, and they remain to be my favorite parts of theater. However, this process has made me gain quite a liking for directing.

Encore: What are you most excited for audiences to see at Student Directed One Act Plays?

I am most excited for audiences to see the teamwork that our actors have and their desire to create something awesome.

We are so excited for all your hard work to shine on stage on April 25 & 26. Thanks for checking in with us, Annika!

Interview by Emma Crawford, edited by Parker Nelson. Photos by Emma Crawford.

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