When asked how to describe Athens’ own Enzo Moscatello, the first thing that came to theater teacher Ashlynn Hayes’ mind was shooting star, and while it’s not exactly one word, it could not be more true.
“I have no doubt that Enzo is going to accomplish amazing things in life, particularly in film and in the arts. I think Film School is going to challenge Enzo in the best ways, and I truly cannot wait to see what path Enzo will forge in the Arts world,” said Hayes.
Moscatello has been seen all over the school in their four years at Athens. She has been involved in theatre, both in class and after-school programs, since her freshman year; a part of ATV as a producer, and is seen all around in other art classes the school has to offer. Moscatello also brings her talents to her YouTube channel and podcast, Telepathy with friend Anna Porter.
“I’m able to balance these artistic outlets because at the end of the day, I feel truly passionate about them. Art is how I express myself, and it’s the way we communicate and connect with each other,” said Moscatello.
Moscatello will be attending the University of Texas at Austin in the fall as a film, radio, and television major. She hopes to learn more about art history and explore the rich music and art scene of Austin.
“I’ve heard Austin is also a very creative city with a vibrant live music scene. When I’m surrounded by so much music and art, I feel the most connected to the world around me,” said Moscatello.
Hayes has been Moscatello’s mentor and teacher for four years, and has seen her grow from a timid freshman to the writer, director, choreographer, and actor that she is today. In Hayes’s beginning theater class, Moscatello sang “Poor Unfortunate Souls” from Disney’s The Little Mermaid, and from that day, Hayes knew that she would make a great Ursula. Come Moscatello’s senior year, her dream role was bestowed upon her, and she got to take the stage as Ursula.
“Enzo’s creativity and work ethic are unparalleled. Enzo has always taken classes very seriously. They put so much effort into every performance and every assignment. They take direction exceptionally well,” said Hayes.
Moscatello has become a star on the stage her senior year, being both Ursula in The Little Mermaid, as well as Scooby in the Honors Theater class’ production of Delinquents and Detectives, a Scooby Doo Inspired musical. She has also had roles in other productions at Athens like Barbie Life in the Dreamhouse The Musical!, Seussical, and many more.
“My favorite show at Athens will forever be Disney’s The Little Mermaid. Anyone who has ever talked to me about musical theatre knows my number one dream role is Ursula. Being able to portray Ursula during my senior show was an unforgettable experience. I am so grateful to Mrs. Hayes and Mrs. Santa Croce, as they trusted me with this role,” said Moscatello, “To be completely honest, the world of theatre often excludes queer and trans performers. It’s so important for all actors to be given a fair opportunity, not only just at a Broadway-level but in high school theatre as well.”
Enzo encourages rising freshmen to never settle for what “just is” and for them to continue to work hard for what they like, even if they aren’t fully sure what they want yet.
“Know that you may not have your passions and dreams figured out, but as long as you lead with love and align yourself with what feels right, life feels that much easier. Know that there are days when you want to quit, but a bad day doesn’t define you. What defines you is how you rebound and learn from your mistakes,” said Moscatello.
