Wellesley POPS Senior Profile: Abby Chen—Behind the Scenes and Beyond

Special to The Swellesley Report courtesy of the Wellesley High School Bradford and Parents of Performing Students (POPS). This is one in a series of POPS Senior Profiles we’ll be publishing.

While actors may get the spotlight and standing ovations, the real magic often happens behind the scenes—and Abby Chen (Wellesley High School ’27) is a big part of that magic.

Ever since her sophomore year, Chen has been a dedicated member of the school’s technical crew, helping to bring shows like Something Rotten!, Mean Girls, Anything Goes, Eurydice, Happy Anniversary Angel Love Gino!, 12 Angry Jurors, and The Secret in the Wings to life. For her, theater isn’t just about the final performance; it’s also about the teamwork and effort that build up to it.

“I stay involved because I enjoy doing it—working on productions and seeing everything come together,” Chen said.

Her efforts haven’t gone unnoticed. Last year, she received the school’s Theatrical Production and Design award. Teachers and directors alike describe Chen as a steady, essential presence backstage—someone who sees problems before they arise and handles them with calm focus.

“She’s the kind of student who sees a problem before it becomes one and calmly offers a solution,” said Tyler James, the faculty member that nominated Chen for this winning position. “Her positive attitude and eye for detail consistently lift the entire team’s performance.”

One standout moment in Chen’s theater journey was the fall 2023 production of 12 Angry Jurors, where she took on the role of lead stage manager. It was her first time in that position—and by all accounts, she excelled.

“A director is nothing without their stage manager,” James said. “Without Abby in that role, we could not have had such a sold-out and outstanding production of 12 Angry Jurors.”

Abby’s leadership isn’t loud or attention-seeking—it’s rooted in quiet excellence. “She’s helped shape a culture of professionalism, collaboration, and mutual respect in our tech crew,” a teacher said. “Her legacy will be one of quiet excellence and dependability.”

One moment that stood out to Chen was attending a theater festival during her sophomore year.

“It was really exciting to put together a play that was going to be in competition, and it was great being at the festival, seeing a bunch of people who were just as passionate about their productions as I was,” Chen said. “We spent the whole day watching other schools’ performances, and I had an amazing time.”

For Chen, experiences like these go beyond fun—they’ve helped her grow as both a technician and a leader.

“The technical directors and other tech crew members I’ve worked with have always been supportive, which is part of what drew me in. They were always willing to help or teach me things while also encouraging me to pull my own weight. I believe they’ve taught me the importance of working things out but also knowing when to go to others for help.”

Chen’s calm, collaborative nature is one reason others look to her for leadership. “It’s been incredible to watch her evolve into a student others look to for guidance,” said James. “She manages crews during tech rehearsals, communicates clearly with directors and designers, and fixes problems before they become real issues. She’s a true team player.”

Addison Kinney ’26, a fellow theater crew member, shared how Chen helps keep everything running smoothly.

“I think Abby is very good at staying organized and making sure everything runs smoothly, especially in theater,” Kinney said. “She’s also really helpful and willing to do whatever needs to be done, even if it’s not necessarily her job.”

That sense of responsibility extends across every part of her work. “She brings a calming, steady presence backstage that helps everyone else feel grounded and focused,” said James. “She thrives in environments where she can problem-solve and contribute meaningfully without needing the spotlight.”

Chen’s ability to balance multiple commitments has also stood out. “She knows her limits and becomes involved as much as she can possibly handle,” James said. “It’s clear she holds herself to a high standard in everything she does.”

Just as she helps build that sense of community, Chen commits serious time to the work itself. “It depends on the show, but usually, we have rehearsals or meetings for a couple of hours after school most days, and Abby is usually there,” Kinney said.

That time backstage has taught her more than just technical skills; it’s taught her how to think on her feet.

“There can be a lot of difficulties that happen backstage that the audience and sometimes even actors aren’t aware of,” Chen said. “I’ve learned that it’s important to always keep going and to think quickly on your feet since there can be a lot of problem-solving required. It can be challenging, but I think it’s worth it once you see the final product and how all aspects of the production come together.”

Outside of theater, Chen also plays clarinet in the school’s intensive wind ensemble. Whether it’s through music or stage work, her dedication continues to make a lasting impact—one that will keep shining even after the curtain comes down.

“She’s dependable, creative, and always thinking two steps ahead,” said James. “Abby is a real star in our technical team.”

Article written by WHS Bradford’s Solomon Jin ’27