Texan Mosaic

by REBEKAH HARVEY

Before moving to New York City to become an actress and director, Anna Hogan got her start at South Plains College.

Hogan grew up in Lubbock, Texas. She attended Monterey High School before going to SPC.

Hogan says that she chose SPC because of its affordability and the opportunities it held for her.

“I knew I wanted to work in the arts, but I wasn’t sure which facet I wanted to work in,” Hogan said. “I appreciated the small class sizes, the one-on-one time with professors, and the community that the college had to offer. To me, the college size made it easier to focus on my work and feel supported while I was exploring options for my vocation.”

While at SPC, Hogan took her time declaring a major and explored her options before finding her place in the theatre program. She said this was where she was able to explore who she was.

“The highlights of my time at SPC were definitely the performance opportunities,” Hogan recalled, “and I was lucky enough to perform in a variety of different platforms. From choir, to singing for a big band, to performing roles in the musicals and plays- it was an unforgettable experience.”

After transferring from SPC, Hogan continued her education at West Texas A&M University, where she majored in Musical Theater.

“WTAMU got me ready with some heavy-hitter roles and some invaluable lessons on collaboration and perseverance,” said Hogan.

After graduating from West Texas A&M, Hogan decided she would move to New York by the summer of 2015. Before the move, she travelled around the South, directing and performing.

Hogan has lived in New York since 2015. She serves as the Associate Artistic Director for the Rising Sun Performance Company. She and her co-director recently won an award for Outstanding Direction from Planet Connections Theatre Festivity.

“Here, in 2019, I’m in pre-production for “Friendly Fire” by John Patrick Bray, which I’ll be directing at The Theatre at the 14th Street Y as a part of their season of War and Peace,” Hogan said.

Hogan also is an intern to the administrative director of the League of Professional Theatre Women, an organization that strives to increase opportunities for women in theatre.

In her spare time, Hogan likes to read, sleep, and watch television.

“I have been known to binge-watch Netflix and HBO (just finished “Killing Eve,” AMAZING),” said Hogan, “and I enjoy exploring the city for sweet shops and wine bars.”

For other students who want to pursue a career in theatre, Hogan says to keep your vision in mind and stick to it.

“Work hard, answer emails, show up when you’re supposed to and stay to help even if you don’t have to,” Hogan said. “This industry is all about trust and reliability – even more so than talent. Create relationships and nurture them.”

Hogan also offers some advice on rejection.

“Keep in mind that every experience, whether it’s negative or positive, can go in your toolbox as an actor,” she explains, “Never allow yourself to get defeated by a “no”. They’re your bread and butter as an actor. Allow yourself to ask take rejection in stride and KEEP GOING.”