From her first role as a mouse in Cinderella at age four to starring as Van Helsing in Dracula, Carley Kilcrease has grown into a very talented performer whose passion extends beyond the stage, impacting every production she’s in and inspiring those around her. Whether she’s acting, choreographing, or singing, Carley’s dedication to her craft and the theater community is undeniable. She brings an energy that makes every space she’s in feel all the more bright.
Her journey into theater began at a young age, when her love for dance led her to perform in a community children’s theater at age four. “I was put in dance because of how much I loved it,” Carley recalls. “My mom ended up putting me in the theater because of how much I loved to talk, and I just stuck with it.” While she eventually had to give up pursuing competitive dance to focus on theater, Carley continues to dance at Enloe. But her heart lies on the stage. She’s been a part of the Enloe drama program for years, earning roles in productions such as Putnam County Spelling Bee, Les Misérables, The Little Mermaid, Clue, and Dracula, where she starred as Van Helsing, her favorite role to date. “It was my first time doing a production at this level of professionalism,” she says, reflecting on the experience. “It really opened my eyes to how much work goes into making something great, and I loved every moment of it.”
Beyond performing, Carley has contributed to the drama department at Enloe in numerous other ways, from choreographing for Putnam County Spelling Bee to handling publicity and props for nearly all of the productions. “The theater community is so welcoming and understanding. It’s a place where you really feel like you belong,” she shares, explaining what keeps her coming back year after year. “And I love the creative process, the ability to bring my ideas to life on stage.”
Outside of theater, Carley is a music enthusiast. She plays both piano and guitar (electric and acoustic) and loves to sing. “Music is the best outlet for me to express myself,” she says. “You always find a song that fits what you’re feeling, and it helps you connect with others over shared experiences.” Carley also has a passion for photography, and while it’s only a fun hobby for now, it’s something she enjoys exploring in her spare time.
When asked about her biggest achievement at Enloe, Carley immediately reflects on the friendships she’s built throughout her four years here. “I’ve really gotten to know who my people are,” she says. “It took a lot of hard work, but it’s been worth it.” One of Carley’s closest friends, Avery, agrees: “Carley is one of the kindest and funniest people I know. She has an amazing ability to brighten any room and make friends wherever she goes.”
As Carley prepares to leave high school, she’s excited for all the new experiences that await her. “I’m looking forward to finding out who I’m going to be for the rest of my life,” she says. “College, for me, will be about finding my freedom, making new friends, and growing into the person I’m meant to be.”
After graduation, Carley plans to get her BFA in musical theater with a minor in business at East Carolina University. Then, she aims to continue her education further and earn her MBA. Until theater picks up for her, Carley plans to pursue a career in business full time while auditioning in her spare time. “I want to be able to support myself doing theater full time,” she says, “but until that happens, I’m ready to work hard in business and keep auditioning in my free time.”
Carley has spent years bringing stories to life on stage, and now it’s time for her to step into her own story. From all of us at The Eagle’s Eye, we can’t wait to see what she does next!
