Middlesex Community College performing arts, music student Theresa Tha, of Lowell, will dance with the Angkor Dance Troupe (ADT) in a performance of “A Khmer Swan Lake” at the Merrimack Repertory Theatre (MRT). Having taken Khmer dance classes since childhood, performing on stage is a dream come true for Tha.
“Being able to perform professionally and experience the whole audition process is really eye-opening to the possibilities and opportunities that are around you,” Tha said. “It gives you motivation to work toward something that really matters to you. I prepared and practiced extensively to make sure I was up to par.”
MRT’s adaptation blends Western ballet with Cambodia’s Robam Kenore traditional dance style. Themes include love, betrayal and sacrifice through Cambodian dance and music. A dance instructor for ADT, Tha will play two roles during the show, including Bunny Soriya in the first half and Preah En in the second. Running April 8 through April 26, the MRT will host MCC Night on Wednesday, April 22.
Tha will also perform in MCC’s upcoming student recital as part of the “A World of Music” concert series on Monday, May 4. Before coming to Middlesex, Tha did not think she would attend college. An interest in taking music classes connected her to MCC’s Chair of Music Carmen Rodríguez-Peralta who suggested Tha pursue an independent study. Led by new MCC music faculty member Kimhan Meas, Tha is practicing Roneat Ek, a Cambodian xylophone-like instrument.
“It's a miracle that I'm able to learn an instrument that I really want to learn and also get credits toward my degree,” Tha said. “I am currently studying for an hour every week, practicing mobility exercises, learning Khmer musical terms, and learning the song ‘Bes Krovanh’ (literal translation: Harvesting Cardamom), which is a fun and fast-paced folk song.”
In all her music classes, Tha has found professors who share their talents and experiences with her. Through working with them, she has been able to identify both the strengths and weaknesses of her craft. This support has developed her confidence and shown her music is the right path for her to pursue.
“With the professors I have, I not only get a valuable learning experience, but the motivation to keep doing what I need to do to get where I want to be,” Tha said. “They teach because they want to pass on the knowledge to you, so when you ask for clarification on subjects or techniques, they explain it in a way you can understand, and I don't feel intimidated or feel like a burden.”
In addition to music faculty, Tha found support in MCC’s TRIO Program. Providing access to collegewide resources, TRIO offers a space for her to feel comfortable asking questions and seeking advice. By participating in the program, she feels she is not alone on her college journey.
After graduating from Middlesex, Tha hopes to transfer to Tufts University to continue studying music. Her goal is to become a researcher in the field, focusing on Cambodian music. She would also enjoy one day teaching a Khmer Pinpeat Orchestral music class. MCC helped guide her toward pursuing her dream career.
“Since I've found my major, I've been able to learn under great professors and experience how professionals who are masters at their craft educate and mold their students,” she said. “It gives me not only knowledge relevant to my major, but also shapes me as an instructor. My experience has been great.”