Going Bananas For Erica Robson by Tuleck

Going Bananas For Erica Robson by Tuleck - January 2025 Scholarship Essay

Theater is full of surprises, especially when you least expect them. One of the most memorable, and slightly embarrassing, surprises of my high school career occurred at my first ever audition for a musical at LACHSA. I’d always been the kid who was comfortable on stage, but I had never really auditioned for any musical in the past, despite my deep love for it. It was for Sweeney Todd, and I had the right passion but absolutely the wrong key. I think I’d gotten so excited that I skipped over the part where I should’ve checked my range. Needless to say, I was definitely not cast. But there was one person in that room who was impossible to ignore: Ms. Erica Robson, the director and choreographer and ultimate school legend. A true Broadway presence like no other. Not only did she make Sweeney Todd and every other musical in the past come to life, but she also made me realize that there was much more to musical theater than hitting the right note.
From that moment on, I became determined to prove myself. Flash forward to the next year, my junior year, when I was cast as Officer Barrel in Urinetown. Ms. Robson, despite my previous audition disaster, welcomed me with open arms. Walking into the MT rehearsal black box space for the first time was electrifying. From there on, Tuesdays and Fridays became my favorite days. I couldn’t wait to show up, because I knew I would leave having learned something more than just the steps to a dance routine or the lines for a scene.
Ms. Robson wasn’t just a teacher; she was a mentor who knew how to nurture talent while instilling the importance of professionalism. Throughout my time at LACHSA, we had a tradition in the musical theater department: a singular banana that would make its way into every production we did. It wasn’t just for laughs (though it definitely provided some). It was a symbol of legacy. Back then, I didn't know what of , but I knew it was important. Post graduation, I realized a deeper meaning. A banana is a humble, colorful, and versatile fruit. Its beautiful yellow peel is appealing, expressing warmth and happiness. It's the ideal combination of soft and sturdy: firm on the outside and tender on the inside. Like a person who exudes a cheerful, approachable energy while retaining inner strength and tenacity. Even as it ripens and its color deepens, the banana stays trustworthy, providing sweetness and comfort, much like a person who grows and evolves while remaining true to their ideals and generosity. Its capacity to blend in with any environment, such as smoothies, cereal, or when eaten alone, reflects the versatility and openness of someone who can thrive in a variety of scenarios while making everyone feel comfortable. I wasn’t always the lead in any of the shows— Urinetown, Little Shop of Horrors or Sister Act—but I showed up, cared for the art and the people around me, worked hard, and I respected the process. And because of that, I was given the banana in all three of my shows, earning my place in the department’s unique tradition.
What Ms. Robson taught us it wasn't just about how to nail your 16-bar audition cut or how to hit every pirouette perfectly (although she could do that, and had no problem doing it). It was about what it really means to be a professional. She didn’t care if you were the lead or if you had a single line. What mattered to her was that you showed up with decency and professionalism every time. That’s the kind of stuff that gets you cast again and again. When I think back on our time together, it’s not the roles I remember most. It’s the way she made us understand the power of showing up, being humble, and working hard no matter the size of the part. Those are the qualities that last.
As a testament to her belief in me, Ms. Robson eventually elevated me to assistant director for Sister Act. I was over the moon, not just because it was a cool title, but because I knew it came with her trust and respect. Working side by side with her, I got to see how she managed the show’s choreography and direction on a deeper level, and I learned more about the magic of creating a show than I ever thought possible.
Since graduating, I carry her lessons with me every day as I enter the professional world. I hope one day we get to share a stage together, not as teacher and student, but as equals in this crazy, beautiful industry. Until then, I know I’ll always have the banana to remind me of her lessons in professionalism, humility, and the real meaning of show business.
Overall, Ms. Robson didn’t just shape my acting career. She shaped me as a person. Sure, I may have learned how to belt a F’ sharp, but more importantly, I learned how to live the life of an artist with integrity, grace, and an occasional banana in hand.