Toby Lewis
B.A. in Theatre with a concentration in Design/Tech
Hometown: Vale, N.C.
Graduation Year: 2027
Tell us a little about yourself! How did you first get interested in theatre/design?
Going with the flow of things is usually how I find the things I like. I struggle greatly with my mental health and chronic pain, so it can be hard to know how much energy I will have to make it through the day. But I knew that theatre, and more specifically, costumes, were the right fit for me because no matter how tired, or low, things get, I never get tired of creating something. Costumes let me take my time and really pour my soul into things I care about, no matter how much is going on. It is my safe place.
What kind of career do you hope to have?
I hope to be a tailor someday. I would love to have my own shop where I can make suits as my day job, and design and stitch for shows in my free time. I love how much detail I can get out of specific garments and costumes. So, I would love to help with shows that need specific larger builds.
What is your favorite thing about the Department of Theatre?
I love how much the department cares about what they are making. I never go a day where I don’t see the love of theatre and the passion to make something amazing, together. The theatre department cares about what they do, and it shows with the amount of quality the shows at UNC Charlotte have.
Do you have any scholarships? If so, how have they helped you?
Yes! I am honored to have received the Clara McKay and Charles H. Stone Scholarship. This scholarship has not only helped me financially with keeping up with things, but it also helped prove to myself that what I am doing matters and is worth it. I struggle with that sometimes, but I’ve grown so much since I started theatre. The scholarship is also helping me adopt a puppy this Fall 26 that will be trained and become a psychiatric service dog and a best friend. I would not be able to do such a helpful thing for myself without UNC Charlotte.
When you are not in class, studying, or working, what do you like to do for fun?
I love learning new things. Whether it be playing my piano, practicing my drawing, or even photography, I always find something to dive into. I also spend a lot of time with my partner, who is my biggest supporter and what makes my days so incredible and exciting. Without him, I would not be able to create things or follow dreams like these.