Some girls dream of donning a sparkly, elegant dress to become the sophisticated princess of their dreams. Others may aspire to sing and dance on a stage for an adoring audience. In fairy-tale fashion, these dreams are becoming reality for one senior.

Bailey DeBerry will portray Cinderella in this year’s musical. DeBerry has been in choir since fourth grade and in the musical all four years of high school.

“I started in elementary school in the Reeves-Hinger fourth grade choir,” DeBerry said. “I’ve always been interested in theater, so I attended summer camps and was in my first production in the summer after sixth grade.”

DeBerry said she sees theater as an outlet for expression.

“It’s a way to show my emotions,” DeBerry said. “At the same time, I get to do what I love with the friends I’ve made.”

Her sophomore year, DeBerry earned a spot for the first time in the Texas Music Education Association All-State Choir and performed in San Antonio.  She sang with the All-State Choir again her junior year and is currently in the All-State audition process with the next round of auditions coming Dec. 4. She said her All-State experiences are her favorite choir memories.

“I loved getting to be there with people who were passionate about music and passionate about sharing their gift of music with everyone,” DeBerry said. “It was an unforgettable experience both times.”

DeBerry, who was also a lead in last year’s production of White Christmas, said putting oneself out there and being dedicated are key to being successful in musical performances.

“You have to be fully committed to the musical,” DeBerry said. “You also have to have fun. If you don’t make it fun, then the musical will not be fun for you. It’s all how you take advantage of your situation.”

Though DeBerry said that she is different from her character in many ways, she also said she and Cinderella share passion and optimism.

“We both have the idea that tomorrow will be a better day and there’s always something to look forward to,” DeBerry said. “We both believe that if you wish and work toward your dreams, they will come true.”