Chantal Aguirre is the most recent Merlin Works student to be awarded the Diversity Scholarship. The Merlin Works Diversity Scholarship was created to foster diversity both onstage and off. It primarily aims to further open the world of Austin Improv to people of color, though individuals who identify with any minority background, culture, or community are welcome to apply.
Chantal is a complete newbie to improv. As an aspiring, professional, contemporary circus performer who practices ground acrobatics, gymnastics, and aerial silks, she believes, “Improv will help me find my voice and make my performance quality improve. I have struggled with putting myself out there in uncomfortable situations and am really trying to work on that!”
Chantal moved to the United States from Mexico when she was 8 years old. She didn’t speak English and didn’t understand the culture.
“Now that I am older (21), I notice and make connections differently. I have a high degree of cultural awareness, pick up on cues, and am adaptable.”
Her dual-cultural experience has led her to be fascinated with people and culture.
“It’s from new, but at times, uncomfortable situations that we learn and grow.”
