Today we’d like to introduce you to Destiny Elliott.
Hi Destiny, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
My dream since I was a little girl has been to perform. Every evening after school, my sisters and I would gather around our television to watch the latest award shows and performances. I sat pinned in awe of their voices, powerful dancing and the energy they translated through the screen. Those early days spent mesmerized by my TV, were the moments I knew I wanted to pursue performing arts and the day my world would change!
Well not immediately. Gearing up for the big stage, I slipped on my best tutu and got ready to perform for my adoring fans: my parents, sisters and stuffed animals. I would jump around the living room mimicking the likes of Whitney Houston, Beyonce, and Michael Jackson. I could only dream of the day I would have the platform to perform for a larger audience!
In the past few years, I have remained steadfast in building a career in the arts by participating in my community’s theatre and choir programs. I have learned many lessons over the years from performing; one being that consistency and discipline is key. There have been times in my musical pursuits where I have felt discouraged and defeated. For example, auditioning for parts and not getting them can be frustrating. However, those strenuous times left me determined to work harder and reinforced my commitment to building my skill. Reminiscing on my experiences, I can’t imagine if I would have ever given up.
Today you can find me performing in acting classes at the Savannah College of Art & Design. Approaching my Sophomore year, I have participated in 3 showcases and have placed 1st in talent shows. With this, I have judged talent shows in Atlanta and participated in 3 SCAD student films.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
I approached the microphone with my palms drenched in sweat. I looked at the audience ahead; every pair of eyes darted on me. I took a deep breath and before I knew it, the music began. I opened my mouth and tried to let the words carry me, just like I had practiced in the mirror before. But the sound was filled with brokenness. My feet remained planted on the ground, too frightened to move. I hardly got through the song and saw the disappointment in the crowd. “I let them down,” I thought. I rushed home immediately; hardly being able to catch my breath. My heart throbbed and the room swayed. I tried to calm myself, but my mind was filled with thoughts of humiliation. “How stupid I was to think I could ever perform for an audience!” My mind raced and the world appeared dark. That was the first time I had a panic attack.
After that incident, I couldn’t sleep and became hopeless. Music gave me the voice, I felt had been taken away from me due to bullying. Without my voice, I felt insignificant and lost. I decided I would never perform on stage again. Months passed and I remained firm on never performing, yet my soul longed to stand on a stage again. Walking to lunch, I saw a flyer stating that my school’s theatre was holding auditions for a production. I wasn’t planning to attend but I couldn’t stop thinking about it. “What if this is my chance?” I pondered.
Auditions were the next day, and I had to at least try. I searched for a monologue and studied it. I walked into the audition room. Past thoughts resurfaced and my body tensed. “Are you ready?” she uttered. I nodded my head and began. I fought every urge and persisted; enunciating every consonant and engaging my full body. I thanked her for her time and walked out feeling content. The next day, I scanned the cast list. That’s when I saw it! My name prominent at the top! I couldn’t believe it. Taking a few moments to let it sink in I thought about before; when I was anxious on a stage. I was thankful and I didn’t let a further minute go to waste. I rushed home joyfully!
The show was a success! I performed without stuttering and felt I found my voice again! Participating in theatre has influenced me to help others to feel seen and heard theough performance. Through this experience, I’ve learned to persevere through obstacles.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
The reason I chose SCAD is because I knew it would be the perfect place to grow in my singing and acting. While in school, I still participate in local and community performances. Most recently, I have sang at The Fox Theatre, sang for a Christmas work party at Mac’s in the Marietta Square, sang the Black National Anthem for a community Juneteenth event in Washington, GA. You can now find me singing in my church choir and preparing for SCAD’s production of “Rent” as ensemble and understudy for Mimi. With my work, I aspire to prove that no matter your background you can still achieve greatness with determination and a great work ethic. All performers hold a special role in bringing realities and new perspectives to life and I want to continue my part in spreading the art of performing to the world!
What was your favorite childhood memory?
My favorite early childhood memory is watching my dad cook in the kitchen. We had just arrived to Atlanta from Detroit, MI. My dad was still in search for work and spent most of his days cooking and playing with my sister, Tiffani, and I. He would go around the kitchen in search of leftovers he could whip up and turn into a meal. He would stomp his feet, maintaining the beat and sing gospel songs; exchanging the lyrics with our names. Although we didn’t have a whole lot setting into our new environment, I learned a valuable lesson about music. That music has the power to lift up spirits and make any situation better.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/destinyrelliott?igsh=MXF4NnBhZW9tajg1aA%3D%3D&utm_source=qr
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1L26Z2AGop/?mibextid=wwXIfr
