Meet Andrew Grzywacz
Passionate about my endeavors, I’m always striving for improvement and perfection. As a senior and National Honor Society member in the Technical Theater pathway at EASTCONN’s Arts at the Capitol Theater (ACT) Performing Arts Magnet High School, I’ve thrown myself into every opportunity. For main-stage productions more recently, I’ve been entrusted with roles usually handled by teachers such as Head Lighting Designer and Technical Director. Also skilled in the scene shop with all major tools, I can design, order materials, and build a set nearly autonomously. I’m accumulating the experience and show credits of an early-career professional yet I still hunger for more. Currently I’m in the application process with leading collegiate technical theater/production programs with lighting design concentrations.
Often described as a renaissance man, I’m committed to additional pursuits. I’m a baritone vocalist and a member of my school’s Acapella Choir and the auditioned Select Choir under the direction of Katherine Popovic. I’m also a member of the auditioned UCONN Joy! Conservatory Program which in addition to recital opportunities also funds a portion of my ongoing private voice lessons with Carolyn Fisher. Additionally, I participate in the Eastern Connecticut State University's Concert Chorale and am also the first-ever high schooler to join their auditioned Chamber Choir, both under the direction of Dr. David Belles.
Part of my drive comes from having a farm-tough work ethic. Outside of school, I’m a well-developed equestrian in the English equitation and hunter disciplines, competing both individually and as a high-school team member in IEA (Interscholastic Equestrian Association). I’ve shown in national-level competitions and have won multiple large classes at state finals. With this has come deep love, respect, and horsemanship with my partners. I’m employed on the weekends at an equestrian center with duties ranging from horse care to substantial facilities maintenance. I pride myself in ring footing knowledge and grooming, and being onboard a tractor is another happy place for me. I’ve also taken a deep interest in course design and utilize a specialized leading professional software program.
My knack for seeing light and having an eye has also helped me grow my skills that started in a middle school photography class into an active business with a focus on equine and high school senior portraiture. This often requires using only natural light, though I’m versed with deploying multiple off-camera flashes when needed. My client base continues to grow through referrals.
It’s not uncommon for adults to say they forget I’m still “just a kid.” My productivity and maturity lend to that, as do my leadership skills. In addition to guiding my peers at school, I’ve been junior captain of my equestrian team, served for a year-long term as the sole New England representative on the IEA National Youth Board, and was nominated by the youth board members to be their Vice President during the 2023-2024 season. I’ve led large-scale community service projects such as having therapeutic riding centers attend regional IEA finals throughout New England. This resulted in a mutually beneficial experience for their riders to attend an exciting competition and also for them to recruit volunteers and donations. I also lead a large-scale fundraising effort each year for my equestrian team that leverages my photography to earn thousands of dollars.
One other thing adults say is that I have a distinct “mission walk.” They can tell when I’m enroute to get something done. Hopefully I’ll get a chance to collaborate with you and bring my drive and talents to your endeavor.
Computer Skills:
Adobe Creative Suite, especially Lightroom, Photoshop, and Premier Pro
Vectorworks Design Suite
Obtained Vectorworks certification
Strides21 Equestrian Software Solutions (course design program)