Molly Sallaberry of St. Joseph’s Academy

Molly Sallaberry wants to deliver way more than the same old song and dance. The St. Joseph’s Academy sophomore is passionate about musical theater, especially singing. She took home top prize at the 2024 Fox Performing Arts Charitable Foundation Teen Talent Competition. Her performance of “Kindergarten Love Song” not only won the $8,000 first place scholarship, but also earned her the Audience Choice Award.

Where did your interest in performing come from?
I’ve always loved singing and performing. When I was around 8, my mom had me participate in my first show. After that, I started taking voice lessons, and my love for it has only grown since.

What is your favorite thing about performing?
I just love how it makes me feel. I enjoy being on stage and seeing the reactions of the audience. I love making people smile and laugh, that’s why I tend to pick funny songs to perform. I am really into every part of musical theater, but singing definitely is my favorite component. That’s where I started out and what I’ve trained the most in. Singing makes me the happiest.

Why did you decide to participate in the Teen Talent Competition?
My voice teacher recommended it. She had students participate in the past, and it sounded fun. I really enjoy performing, so it was another opportunity to do what I love. She also helped me pick out a song to perform. I wanted to do something more comedic, so I could make it a whole performance—I didn’t want to just stand there and sing. We came across “Kindergarten Love Song,” and I just fell in love with it.

How did it feel to win both first place and the Audience Choice Award?
It was definitely the best night of my entire life. Never in a million years did I expect that to happen—it was crazy and amazing. I’m really grateful to have taken home both awards.

Do you plan to continue performing?
Definitely. I’m hoping I can perform in college and even outside of it. It’s my passion, so I would like to continue to do it for the rest of my life.

What do you enjoy doing in your free time?
I spend pretty much of all of my time doing musical theater. I take voice lessons, do dance classes and participate in shows. I also like to hang out with my friends and be with my family, but a lot of my time is spent doing what I love, which is singing, dancing and acting.

Photo: ProPhoto STL