From Skutt Catholic to NYC: Andrew and Katie’s Journey in the Performing Arts

“I think it’s great that they have been able to follow their dreams of acting in a major way. It has been fun watching their talent continue to grow from the challenges they were offered here at Skutt Catholic, on through college, and now as professionals. We pray for their continued success and that our current students always view them as role models for chasing your passions until they become your reality.” – Mr. Chris Storm 

Andrew Wright ‘14 and Katie Pohlman Wright ‘15 offer a glimpse into their inspiring journey from Skutt Catholic High School to New York City, showcasing the profound impact of the performing arts.

Andrew and Katie met at Skutt Catholic High School through their involvement in musicals, plays, show choir, and choir. Their most cherished experience was participating in Skutt Catholic’s 2013 production of Les Miserables, where Andrew took on the role of Marius and Katie portrayed Cosette. This production held deep personal significance for both of them and left a lasting impact on the entire Skutt Catholic community.

At Skutt Catholic, Andrew and Katie found a haven in the theater program where they could truly be themselves. Interestingly, both were honored by their classmates with the title of “Most Likely to be on Broadway” for their senior superlative.

Andrew’s time at Skutt Catholic ignited his passion for theater, leading him to pursue a degree in the field. He earned his Bachelor of Arts in Theater Studies from Nebraska Wesleyan University. After graduation, Andrew embarked on a professional career, performing on stages across Omaha, the Quad Cities, and Kansas City for two years.

Katie’s lifelong ambition has been to pursue a career in professional performance. Her journey began at Skutt Catholic, where she deepened her understanding of theater in preparation for college and the professional world. Graduating from Oklahoma City University with a Bachelor of Performing Arts in Dance Performance, she further honed her skills through a professional training program in New York City. Katie’s career includes performances on the first national tour of Bandstand and in regional productions at prestigious venues like Paper Mill Playhouse (The Wanderer), Music Theatre Wichita (Hairspray, Oklahoma, Chicago, and more), and The Muny (Gypsy). Additionally, she showcased her talent as a dancer on Saturday Night Live.

After several years of moving in and out of the city, Andrew and Katie finally settled in New York City, where they’ve now lived for two years. Katie remains involved in the theater and dance community, currently performing on the North American Tour of Disney’s Aladdin, with aspirations to grace Broadway soon. She finds profound fulfillment in being part of the vibrant musical theater scene in the city. Andrew has transitioned to a new career outside of performance but has discovered a deep sense of purpose in singing with their church choir and sharing his gift during Mass. Together, they are actively engaged in music ministry at their church.

Their advice for high school students is that being a good person and a hard worker will get you further than pure talent alone.

Photos:

Pictured on Easter at The Church of St. Paul the Apostle in NYC after singing all of Holy Week and the Easter Triduum with the choir.

Andrew as Marius and Katie as Cosette in Les Mis at Skutt Catholic in 2013.