This month, we’re excited to highlight Grace Coltharp whose creativity, passion, and dedication have earned her a key role in the Texas A&M Aggie Musical Theatre Club’s upcoming production of Anastasia. After applying for the creative team, she was selected as the Assistant Choreographer—a position that beautifully blends her love of dance with her desire to contribute meaningfully to the performing arts community on campus.
A Journey Fueled by Passion
Her path to musical theatre at Texas A&M began with a simple Instagram post. After seeing that students could submit an audition form for Anastasia, she decided to give it a try. The creative team saw something special in her and encouraged her to apply for a position. With years of dance experience and a deep love for performance, she submitted her application for the choreographer team—and soon received the exciting news. “When I found out I was selected, I was just so excited and a little bit in shock,” she shared. “I even reread the email just to make sure. It was a mix of shock and excitement.”
Bringing Movement to the Story
As Assistant Choreographer, she plays an essential role in shaping the movement and energy of the production. Her responsibilities include demonstrating choreography, helping clean up dance numbers, and organizing recorded routines so cast members can practice outside rehearsal. Her creative process is thoughtful and intuitive. “When I’m choreographing, I take it verse by verse and just listen to the words and the flow. That helps me decide how the choreography should look.” She’s especially excited to help bring numbers like “Paris Holds the Key,” “Once Upon a December,” and “My Petersburg” to life. These pieces, she says, beautifully capture the magic, emotion, and wonder that define Anastasia. “I want the audience to feel a magical kind of feeling when they watch it,” she said. “That’s the most exciting part.”
Building Confidence, Community, and Connection
More than anything, she looks forward to working with the cast and creative team—forming friendships, making memories, and helping each performer shine. She takes a supportive, flexible approach when teaching choreography. “I assess everyone’s skill levels and go from there. If someone is feeling overwhelmed, I substitute a move that fits them better. The audience doesn’t know the dance—we do. So have fun with it and don’t overthink it.” Being part of the Aggie Musical Theatre Club means a great deal to her. “I’ve always loved theater and dance. To be part of something and contribute really means a lot to me, and I’m so grateful for this experience.”
Growing as a Leader and Artist
This opportunity is also helping her grow personally and academically. She’s strengthening skills like teamwork, accountability, responsibility, and time management—abilities she knows will help her in future creative pursuits or career decisions. Her advice to other students who want to take on creative leadership roles? “Don’t be afraid to put yourself out there. Even if you don’t get the position, at least you tried. And once you do get it, have fun and enjoy every second of it because the experience goes by so fast.”
Looking Ahead
If given the chance to choreograph another musical someday, she already has her dream shows in mind: Wicked, Legally Blonde, or Hamilton—her personal favorite. Each production, she says, offers a unique style and energy she’d love to explore choreographically. Her enthusiasm, creativity, and dedication make her an unforgettable part of the Anastasia creative team. We can’t wait to see the magic she helps bring to the stage.
