Ava Gallo, an 18-year-old from Westerleigh, has recently made waves in New York City’s vibrant theatrical community by securing a win in Ellen’s Stardust Diner’s competitive audition series.
Gallo, who has been performing since third grade, expressed excitement about the opportunities this victory may bring, particularly in connecting with others in the theater community.
Ellen’s Stardust Diner is located on 1650 Broadway, at the bustling intersection of 51st Street, and is renowned for its singing waitstaff—the Stardusters—who entertain guests with a selection of Broadway tunes.
This retro diner has a reputation as a launchpad for many aspiring performers, with numerous former staff members making their way to Broadway stages and successful off-Broadway productions.
Gallo’s win allows her to sing alongside the Stardusters during the diner’s Kids’ Night on Broadway event scheduled for August 19.
A regular visitor to Manhattan’s theater district, Gallo shared that her love for the iconic diner runs deep. Encouraged by her mother, she stepped into the competition, showcasing her vocal talent.
Her powerful rendition of “The Winner Takes It All” from the beloved musical “Mamma Mia!” ultimately earned her the top spot in the 16-18 age category.
Describing the song as one of strength, Gallo reflected, “I’ve loved that movie since I was really little, but as I’ve grown older, I’ve started to learn the real meanings behind it, and it’s started to hold even more significance in my life.”
During her time at Notre Dame Academy High School in Grymes Hill, Gallo had the opportunity to play the leading role of Donna in the school’s production of “Mamma Mia!”, reinforcing her connection to the musical.
After submitting a clip from her performance, Gallo was selected among hundreds of applicants for a live audition in front of a panel that included notable Broadway stars, Ellen Hart, the diner’s founder and owner, and artistic director Scott Barbarino.
As Gallo prepares to embark on her freshman year at Wagner College, she is eager to build relationships within the performing arts community and to continue pursuing music.
“My passion for it has grown stronger,” she shared. “It’s honestly been more enriched through the people who I’ve met.” Gallo added that witnessing the dedication of her fellow performers motivates her to work even harder.
While Gallo has a profound love for the stage, she reveals that her professional ambitions are leaning toward medicine, aiming to become a physician’s assistant after years of assisting sick loved ones.
This newfound vision does not diminish her passion for performing, as she stated, “I just love putting a story on stage and seeing the audience being so drawn into it.”
When asked what advice she would offer to aspiring performers facing auditions and competitions, Gallo emphasized, “Confidence is key. I think that without confidence, you limit yourself. Be true to yourself, and just have fun.”
image source from：silive
