Student Spotlight: Elei Haynes

Photo provided by Rampage student photographer Caleb Honaker.

Native to the area who grew up following Bluefield University Theatre, Elei Haynes has taken on the challenge of being BU’s only current theatre major.

Haynes began to do shows with BU Theatre during her first year of high school. This is one of the reasons why she chose to come to BU.

“I’ve always felt a real sense of community here,” Haynes said. “I have always known everybody, and it has always felt like a place I belonged. It is a really welcoming place.”

Haynes chose theatre as her major because it is something she has always been passionate about. She loves to perform and bring joy to others through that.

Haynes has performed in many roles and many productions during her time at BU. From these roles, her favorite has been the Narrator in Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat. This was her first lead as a college student, and she felt that she was able to bring a part of herself to the role. This was also a role that was entirely singing, which is one of Haynes’ favorite things.

“I was playing a character, but I was also just playing me,” Haynes said.

Haynes’ other favorite role was Martha Watson in White Christmas, which was her second show as a college student.

As the only theatre major at BU, Haynes must wear many hats to ensure that she puts her best foot forward for each show and performance. She is in all the shows, but it doesn’t end there. She oversees the props, helps paint and build the sets, and has assumed the position of music director for three performances, including the upcoming production of Finding Nemo, Jr.

Haynes said that being a part of such a small Theatre Department means that everyone must be ready to help where help is needed. This is something that she has really enjoyed, because she feels that she is getting to do things and get experience that she would not get anywhere else.

Even through all the chaos and work, Haynes is excited about everything she is learning and the hands-on experience she is getting.

“The arts have not only turned from a hobby to a passion,” Haynes said, “but they have also made such a difference in my life.”