Student Spotlight: Cece Pitkanen

After watching her first Youth Theatre Production at Dr. Phillips Center’s AdventHealth School of the Arts in 2023, 11-year-old Cece Pitkanen knew she was meant to be on stage. Today, she lights up every performance with confidence and joy. As she puts it, "When the lights come up and the music starts, it feels like magic."

Cece's journey with AdventHealth School of the Arts began at age six through the Homeschool Performing Arts Program. That early experience sparked something in her, and she's been part of the School of the Arts community ever since. Along the way, she's discovered that performing arts is so much more than singing and dancing; “I’ve learned it's about teamwork, storytelling and finding your voice,” she says. "The programs have helped me believe in myself." 

One of Cece's favorite things about the school is how personal it feels. She still remembers her first callback for The Little Mermaid Jr. and the nerves that came with it. "My teacher remembered me from a previous program, and that made me feel like I truly belonged." She's also found her friends who love musical theatre just as much as she does. "This community is so special, they're always cheering me on and sharing new opportunities.”

This spring, performing in Seussical TYA was a full-circle moment for Cece. The very first youth theatre production she ever saw was Seussical Jr. — the show that sparked her love of theatre in the first place. "To actually perform in Seussical TYA myself made it feel like my dream had come true," she shares.

For Cece, the magic of performing goes beyond the spotlight. She's become more confident and outgoing, more willing to try new things, and has even discovered a love of reading scripts that she's woven into her homeschool curriculum. 

"My family has noticed how much I've grown since I started performing," she says proudly.

Looking ahead, Cece is eager to keep developing her skills in singing, dancing, and acting — and is especially excited to dive into the world of auditions, casting and rehearsals through the Take It From The Top program this summer.

Learn more about programs offered at AdventHealth School of the Arts or to sign up for a class here.