Naples native Lorelai Vega shines in Southwest Florida theater return

Lorelai Vega, a Naples native, is back in Southwest Florida for a special performance. The 20-year-old actress, now based in New York City, is taking the stage in a production close to her heart.

Vega traded the Naples sunshine for the bright lights of New York City at a young age. She was just eight years old when she auditioned for her first show in Southwest Florida.

"To see myself grow and change and come into my own as an artist feels really good to me," said Vega. "It's easy to have other people tell you that you're good at something and congratulate you after a show, but to be able to feel that and believe it yourself and think it for yourself is also really nice."

This week, Vega is performing in "The Bridges of Madison County" with the Southwest Florida Theatre Company. She plays Carolyn, a 14-year-old girl trying to find her place in the world.

"She has a lot of ambition, you know, she wants to run the farm and she's kind of breaking the societal norms that only men can do that," said Vega.

The role became even more personal for Vega during rehearsal.

"Me personally, as the daughter of an immigrant, then sitting in Carolyn as the daughter of an immigrant, that added a whole new layer for me," said Vega. "And I think that's so beautiful because I'm just so thankful for what came before me to put me where I am now."

Vega is thrilled to be home performing while chasing her Broadway dreams.

"It's the greatest because I'm doing exactly what I want to do and I get to come home and see my family and go to all the places that I love here," said Vega.

Vega has a message for the next generation of Southwest Florida performers.

"Put yourself in uncomfortable positions as much as you can because that's when you grow the most," said Vega.

After this run, Vega will head back to New York, but she plans to return to a stage near you again this summer.