Do you need a story on how to defy gravity and find creative inspiration? 

Entering into the world of theatre in the middle of her high school career, Canyon High School senior Marley Garner surprised onlookers as she won gold at the Jerry Herman Awards last month at the Pantages Theatre in Los Angeles. Marley Garner, who was nominated for “Best Actor,” competed against actors from 40 schools, even having the chance to perform on stage.

Marley has dealt with anxiety disorder and ADHD and felt that the arts were a way for her to better process her lived experience and direct her energy. She discusses how being in the arts was an avenue to find her strengths and abilities and learn how to understand her emotions. Genein and Marley discuss how the arts should be a communication method for all people, especially youth, who are still formulating their autobiographical memories and identity.

Taking on Hollywood, Garner traveled to New York City in the summer for the National High School Musical Theatre Jimmy Awards. Even though she didn’t win the event, she experienced the trip of a lifetime and found her calling…telling stories from the stage.

Join us as we talk arts, emotional intelligence and having a growth mindset for our youth and for adults.

 Garner joined Canyon’s theater program as a sophomore, and has performed in a variety of roles, such as “Bart” in “Mr. Burns: A Post-Electric Play,” “Squealer” in “Animal Farm,” “Kate” in “The Taming of the Shrew,” “Mimi” in Rent, and most recently, “Tony” in “West Side Story.” She is headed to Pepperdine University and majoring in musical theater to further her craft.

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