Women Today

The Women Who Inspire feature not only emphasizes the struggles and triumphs of actors in the area, it also highlights the ways they encourage all of us. Today we present Jennifer Koroll:

Jennifer Koroll
Appleton
Day job: Owner of the Déjà Vu Martini Lounge

What made you get into acting? I’ve always loved making people laugh and secretly dreamed of being a performer.
I saw an audition notice for one of my favorite shows, “The Rocky Horror Picture Show,” and mentioned how fun it would be to be part of that production. My husband really encouraged me to audition, despite having a black eye and being on crutches at the time due to a recent accident.
I hobbled into the audition and was cast in the role of Columbia. Who knew I could actually do this?!

What was your most recent role? Roxie Hart in “Chicago.” I had so much fun on stage dancing and singing to all those great numbers.
I was able to put a little bit of myself into that role, as the character herself is trying to become a performer.
As a theatre newbie I could relate to Roxie on a personal level.

Do you have a job outside of acting? My husband and I own Déjà Vu Martini Lounge in downtown Appleton. For some reason, most cast parties end up there, I think it’s because I know the owner (wink, wink).

What advice do you have for aspiring actors? Audition! There is always a fear of rejection but just understand that the director wants you to be perfect for the role and he/she isn’t judging you personally.
If I didn’t audition for that first role, I would still be wondering “what if?” If I can audition with crutches and a black eye for a musical, anyone can!