Name: Lexie Antolik
School: Columbia High School
Talent: Dance
How long have you been performing and what inspired you to start?
I have been dancing and performing since the age of 4. When I was younger watching the older dancers inspired me. As I have gotten older I have been inspired by many different people that I have had the honor to perform with or watch perform. Two of my biggest inspirations came while watching my all-time favorite performers on The Muny stage, Jay Armstrong Johnson and J. Harrison Ghee.
How are you preparing for finals? Are you doing anything differently from your usual practices?
I am stretching and working out everyday. I am working on building up stamina and strength. The lights can be very hot on stage and being in the best condition possible is very important.
What will performing on the Fox stage mean to you?
Performing on the Fox stage means everything to me! This will be my third year making it to the finals and I am over the moon that it is live this year! Feeling the energy from the audience and living in that moment on the Fox stage is something that I have been dreaming of for as long as I can remember.
Is there someone you look up to and draw influence from for your talent?
I look up to my teachers and fellow dancers. I learn so much from them. I also look up to so many from the equity casts over the years at The Muny. My favorite performers are Jay Armstrong Johnson and Sharrod Williams.
What has been the highlight of your performance career?
I look up to my instructors and teammates. I feel honored to be able to perform and work with such incredibly talented people every day.
What do you hope to learn from your experience?
I love performing on the Muny stage and as a Muny Kid and Teen. I performed in the Centennial Gala at The Muny and it is a night that I will never forget. I cannot wait to perform live on the Fox stage for the St. Louis Teen Talent show this year! With the past two years being virtual, the thought of a live audience is at the top of the list for me! I am very excited & grateful for this opportunity!