Reconnecting Through the Arts: Alumna Mallory Coakley Returns to RES to Host Summer Theater Camps

This summer, Resurrection College Prep welcomed back alumna, Mallory Coakley, who returned to host her third series of theater camps at her alma mater. This year was particularly special as Mallory expanded the program to include two distinct camps: one focused on acting and the other on musical theatre.

Mallory's decision to return to Resurrection for these camps stems from a deep-seated affection for her high school. “RES will always feel like a home to me,” Mallory shares. “I learned so much about being a strong, caring person at RES, and it feels important to me to pass that on to young women.” Her dedication to nurturing the next generation of performers is a testament to the lasting impact of her time at Resurrection.

When she’s not hosting summer camps, Mallory is busy pursuing a master's degree in choral conducting at the University of Massachusetts-Amherst. She also serves as the choir director at a church in South Hadley, Massachusetts. Her journey from being a music teacher at Saint Andrew School in Wrigleyville to her current role reflects her commitment to both her craft and her community.

Mallory's theater experience began at Resurrection, where she was involved in every show from her sophomore to senior year. She continued her passion for theatre through summer programs at the Miracle Center and furthered her expertise by producing original musicals during her undergraduate studies at North Park University.

At her camps, Mallory aims to instill confidence and creativity in her young participants. “More than anything, I want them to go back to middle school with more confidence,” she says. The all-girls environment of the camps allows campers to drop their guards, have fun, and explore their artistic sides in a supportive space. Mallory hopes they will carry this newfound confidence back into their everyday lives.

One of her favorite aspects of the camps is witnessing the campers’ rapid growth. “I’m always impressed by how quickly they can put together a show,” she notes. The lasting friendships formed at the camps are also a highlight, with campers staying in touch and supporting each other throughout the year.

Mallory customizes her camps to cater to both beginners and more experienced participants. She starts by assessing each camper's comfort level and adapts her lessons accordingly, providing opportunities for leadership roles to those with more experience.

For young aspiring actors and theater enthusiasts, Mallory offers this sage advice: “Embrace performance as a team sport. Give 100% during each rehearsal, be kind to each other, and you will shine no matter what role you are cast in. Also, don’t touch props that aren’t yours!”

Mallory’s return to Resurrection not only enriches the theater program but also reinforces the values of confidence, teamwork, and creativity that she cherishes. Her dedication to her craft and her commitment to giving back to her high school community make her a true inspiration.