Take Five with Antonia Georgieva ’18

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Antonia Georgieva ’18 is an Offie-nominated theatre director who lives and works in London. She is currently pursuing an M.F.A. in advanced theatre practice from Royal Central School of Speech and Drama. Georgieva recently had her professional directorial debut with MUSE, an original play that she wrote as her senior thesis, now set to transfer to an off-West End venue. During the past year, she has directed, produced and performed in London spaces such as The Yard Theatre, Tristan Bates Theatre, Theatre Deli and Camden People’s Theatre.


What were you like when you arrived at Columbia?

I felt ready to take on the world. I had little idea of what to expect and I could have never predicted that I would end up where I am now. All I knew was I was in the greatest university in the greatest city in the world, and I was ready for any challenge it was going to throw my way.

What do you remember about your first-year living situation?

I lived in a spacious double on the top floor of Hartley and had the loveliest view overlooking Butler Library and the lawns — probably the best on campus. As an only child, this was my first time having a roommate, which was a challenge at times but also a great learning experience. What I appreciated more than anything — and this is true for the rest of my time in college— was always having someone around to talk to, whether it was about your class reading or your latest crush.

What Core class or experience do you most remember, and why?

Lit Hum was by far my favorite. As one of my first encounters with the Core Curriculum, it was eye-opening in many ways. I couldn’t wait till the end of the second semester, when we would read one of my favorite books, Virginia Woolf’s To The Lighthouse.

Did you have a favorite spot on campus, and what did you like about it?

There are many but none trumps Low Steps. It’s the hub of the school and perhaps the most quintessential part of campus. It’s my favorite spot, but not when it’s transformed into the so-called Low Beach on sunny days. I much prefer being there just after sundown, when most “sunbathers” have left. Nothing beats the Steps on a cool spring evening with the lights of Butler shining in the distance and good company.

What, if anything, about your College experience would you do over?

I sometimes wish that I had found my way into theatre sooner. I didn’t get involved until my sophomore year when after taking just one class (“Western Theatre Traditions” with William Worthen!), I knew this was something I wanted to pursue. I loved having the freedom to explore different courses and find the right one for me, and I think that’s a really valuable part of the Columbia experience, so I still wouldn’t change anything about it.