Alumni
Victoria (Tori) Nassberg
Current Occupation and Country of Residence: Actor, New York City, USA
Tell us your Faust Story!
I think I was Faust’s #1 Fan. I sat in awe as I watched productions like The Lion, The Witch and Wardrobe, Oliver! and Peter Pan, and knew Faust was where I wanted to be. In 2007, my dream finally came true when I joined Group T. I was then part of the inaugural Stage Group until I left Hong Kong for drama school in 2012.
What is your earliest Faust memory?
I just remember feeling right at home from the very start. I was so excited to be in an environment where I could be creative, follow my instincts and not be afraid of making mistakes. I was inspired by my leaders and everyone else in my group to have fun and play – which was the best feeling in the entire world. After my first day of Faust, I remember not wanting to have to wait a whole week to go back!
What is your favourite Faust memory?
There are almost too many to recall! But I absolutely loved working on The Crucible my first year in Group Stage. It was the first time as a group that we had the opportunity to work on a full play, and tackle such classic and dramatic material. Everyone’s drive and commitment came together to create something, that I believe, was truly special. There’s also nothing more magical than performing with your best friends. A lot of The Crucible cast are lifelong friends, and it’s a time and experience we often recall fondly. We’ll have those memories forever.
What was your biggest challenge in participating and leading in drama workshops and productions?
Learning to trust myself was by far my biggest challenge, but it was also the most rewarding thing to overcome. As a teenager, it’s easy to doubt yourself and your abilities. You’re constantly comparing yourself to others or worrying that you’re doing everything “right”. Over time, Faust allowed me to learn that there are no “right” or “wrong” choices, that everyone brings something unique to the group, and the most important thing is to have fun along the way.
What did you gain from your experience at Faust as a student and / or as a Leader?
I believe that Drama classes can prepare you for anything life throws your way. It doesn’t just help you grow as an artist, but as a human being. From Faust I learned how to trust my instincts, how to communicate effectively, how to work as a team – even with people I had met just minutes before. I learned that my voice is valuable, and having the freedom to express myself is incredibly powerful. I learned how to approach life with a sense of fun and eagerness to keep learning and creating.
How did studying Drama and Theatre impact your life?
It is my life. Because of Faust, I went on to study Drama at NYU’s Tisch School of the Arts. I couldn’t have been better prepared for such rigorous training. Since graduating from NYU, I’ve had the fortunate experience of being a professional actor. I’ve been able to perform all over the world and make a living doing what I’m most passionate about. I consider myself very lucky, and am eternally grateful for my experiences in Hong Kong and with Faust that have led me here.
How would you describe Faust to someone new to drama and theatre?
Faust is magic. You’ll make amazing friends, create awesome theatre and discover something new about yourself each week. It’s the most fun and fulfilling experience you could ever have. It’s a place to grow, to laugh and to express yourself in every way imaginable.
