Lissa deGuzman, DSHA ’12

By Erin McCarville & Danielle Jerominski Rabe, DSHA ’08

After graduating from DSHA, deGuzman followed her passion and attended Belmont University in Nashville, TN where she graduated with a B.F.A. in musical theatre. Post-graduation, deGuzman performed in regional theatres across the country. She landed roles in Bliss; Chasing Rainbows; Fiddler on the Roof; West Side Story; Godspell; 9 to 5; Pippin; Spring Awakening; The Wizard of Oz; and Les Miserables

In 2019, deGuzman made her Broadway debut as the lead role of Ann Darrow in King Kong. She was part of the post-pandemic Broadway reopening when she performed in Aladdin in 2021. In February of 2022, deGuzman was cast as the lead role of Elphaba in the National Broadway Tour of Wicked the musical. Wicked is one of the longest performing shows on Broadway, presenting in over 100 cities and 16 countries. While Elphaba is known as one of the most challenging female roles on Broadway, deGuzman remained confident in herself and her skills. “I have been in many productions and theatres in different environments, and I feel equipped to blossom in each space,” she says.

While at DSHA, Lissa deGuzman, DSHA ’12 , found her voice on the stage. She was a part of the DSHA musicals every fall and spring, participated in the winter plays, and was a part of the Angelaires—including holding the role of president her senior year.

“DSHA taught me to be myself. It is a safe environment that fostered the ability to be oneself, cater to my strengths, work on my weaknesses, and be a safe space to receive love,” she shares.

Off the stage, deGuzman enjoys volunteering for various organizations. “I have this burning desire to continuously grow to be a better person and assist in making the world a better place. I want to use my platform to pay it forward.” During the height of COVID-19, deGuzman volunteered, with the non-profit organization Sing for Hope. She met with nursing homes via zoom and performs sets for the residents. She has also taught weekly vocal classes at the New York City Department of Aging. Additionally, in every city in which the Wicked tour performs, members of the cast provide service to local organizations or gather clothing, food, or monetary donations to help support various non-profits around the country.

Working with these organizations has pushed deGuzman to not be afraid to go outside her comfort zone. “I encourage Dashers today, and all Dashers who have ever existed, to continue to push their boundaries, to continue to go out of their comfort zone, to travel, and to say yes to experiences you would normally say no to.”

An excellent role model for past, current, and future Dashers, deGuzman was presented with the Young Alumna of the Year Award in Chicago after several DSHA community members traveled to see her play Elphaba in Wicked. Upon reception, deGuzman reflected on the community that helped her to arrive at this moment in her career.

“I had a really special high school experience. (Fine Arts Faculty & Producing Director) Amanda Marsala , (Former Fine Arts Faculty & Director of Choral Studies) Becky Wickert , and (Former Director of Theatre and Theatre Manager) Michael Stafford , really put out these incredible productions at DSHA. They put their heart and soul into each performance and modeled for us students what could happen if you put your full effort into something.”

She concluded by thanking the DSHA community