The recent Addams Family musical had a lot of people around OHS working hard. One person who did all the hair behind the scenes and got to follow her passion was senior Danica Bettis.
“I got the opportunity when I first put in my interview/application with Ms. Z. She’s amazing. Right from the start, I pretty much told her I had never really done anything with any sort of theater production, but with me being in tech, I thought I would be of good use or have a little extra knowledge on anything hair-related that they may have needed,” Bettis said. “When I got the position I had with hair and wigs, I knew I had to put in my best work, especially since I didn’t have much experience behind the curtain.”
Bettis said her role in the Addams Family play taught her some important skills for the future when it came to doing hair.
“Real-world skills that I have gained were definitely developing relationships with a team and working one-on-one with a specific character or, if I were in the workplace, a customer,” Bettis said. “I also have learned new ways to accomplish different styles and results, which can help to be more efficient in the workplace.”
Bettis has been in the South Tech cosmetology program since her junior year and says she has had a passion for cosmetology for a while.
“My aunt did (make me interested in cosmetology). She was a large driving force behind my love for all things beauty. I remember the moment I really realized that this was my passion,” Bettis said. “She was in town, she lives about two hours away, and my mom and her were getting ready for Mardi Gras. She had her makeup and hair suitcase and a film chair and was getting my mom ready while I was sitting and watching.”
Though cosmetology incorporates many beauty treatments, there’s one that Bettis loves most.
“I love pretty much all things hair. Specifically, I love coloring and styling hair, but there is so much more you can do, and depending on personalities, hair types and lifestyles, it can all look and be performed differently on a desired outcome,” Bettis said. “It is so fun to see all the things I am able to do.”
Although Bettis has a passion for hair, she had struggles she had to overcome on the way.
“Some challenges I’ve faced with going into cosmetology vary, but none of them are really super difficult. Mostly just learning and getting down the basics to move to more of the detailed work that goes along with cosmetology,” Bettis said. “Overcoming them just means putting in the work when it comes to learning something like this and something that will get you straight into the work field.”
Bettis said she is motivated by her family and the future career that has so much to offer her. She said she can’t wait to see what’s in store for her and loved being a part of the Addams Family production.
Bettis said, “…It was such a tiring and fun experience all at once.”
