What are your plans after high school?

I plan to attend a college in Iowa, though I haven’t made a final decision yet as to which one. I am currently considering becoming a music major. Ultimately my goal is to be a choir teacher.

Tell us about some of your cultural experiences growing up in Fort Dodge. (These would be any plays, musicals, singing, dancing, speech)

Growing up, I have been involved in multiple productions with Comedia Musica, most notably as Annie in Annie, and as Jane Banks in the Musical Mary Poppins. I also involve myself in school-based opportunities such as choir, chamber choir, group and individual speech, concert band, and jazz band. Although out of town experiences such as All-State and All Iowa Show Choir are fun, it is so nice to have the opportunity to join groups that don’t require a drive and an overnight stay.

What are the biggest benefits for a student growing up in Fort Dodge that is involved in music and theatre?

Because Fort Dodge is a relatively small community, you get the chance to know other people who stay involved in the arts really well. Everyone has practically the same opportunities thanks to the close-knit and petite community.

Will music and theater be a part of your life in 25 years? If so, in what ways?

As someone who plans to be a music teacher, although my involvement will change, I hope it never stops. At whatever school I end up teaching at, I plan to get involved in any and all music programs they have.

Who is your biggest role model?

Dr. Lee Nelson, a professor at Wartburg is a huge inspiration to me. He is incredibly skilled and a very well educated man. However, when you talk to him, Dr. Nelson seems so personable. The authority with which he can manage a choir is impressive, yet he doesn’t seem overly confident or full of himself in the least.

What is your favorite musical and why?

It is tough to pick a favorite musical to watch, however the most enjoyable musical to be a part of has by far been Annie for me. Not only was I in a cast full of other girls my age, but my co-star was a golden retriever! As far as musical experiences go, that is a hard show to beat.

You’re on a deserted island … you can have 3 items with you. What would you pick to take and why?

I would want a piano for sure. Although I am not able to play much, I could continue to write music that way. Electronics would die quickly and then I’d be bored, so an instrument is a safer choice. The other items I think I would want are food and water. I can’t play the piano, or do anything else for that matter, if I die.

Walk us through a day in the life of Maggie Lennon.

The best days are Tuesdays through Thursdays because I have show choir rehearsals on those days. Show choir starts at 7:00, but usually I don’t mind. I sleep way too late, eat breakfast, and get ready super fast so I’m not late. School is pretty mundane; although, I get out during second period for a class I take at Senior High. I do enjoy going outside for a bit. Choir is definitely one of my favorite classes. It is at the end of the day, which is always nice. After school, unless it is tennis or cross country season, I head home to rest and eat supper before heading to cheer, musical, or chamber choir practices.