Every Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday after a long and exhausting day of school, Blake Altman drives himself to Pittsburgh CLO Studio. Altman dedicates endless amounts of hours to being an actor at the State Theater Center for the Arts.

“I began performing since as young as 4 years old,” Altman said, “My grandma always wanted me to do it, so I did, and I love it.”

Altman has participated in many plays including Peter Pan, Gypsy, and Hairspray. Altman also is a former Abby Lee Dance Company Student.

Although Altman is spending hours doing what he loves, the demanding amount of time that he spends practicing or performing affects his academics.

 

“Sometimes I have to stay up really late doing homework because I typically don’t get home from Pittsburgh until after 10 p.m.,” said Altman.

Giving the dedication, passion, and time that Altman does into doing what he loves does have a toll on academics. But he doesn’t plan to stop doing what he loves to do anytime soon.

“I love performing,” Altman said, “It honestly is such a thrill.”