NATCHEZ — For Natchez actress Mary Lee Williams, the future looks as bright as a star. At 15 years old, Williams has her goals set high, and is working hard to make her dreams come true. While some students her age may not be concerned with the future, Williams already has a plan for success.

Williams was bitten by the acting bug three and a half years ago after her mother, Laurie Williams, participated in a production at the Natchez Little Theatre.

“I don’t know if I can say I was inspired,” Williams said.

“My mother was in a play and I was backstage with her a lot. She encouraged me to try out for a play.”

Williams landed her first role in a production, playing the part of Martha Crachit.

“After I did that, I was hooked,” Williams said.

All in all, Williams has been involved in sixteen theatrical performances. Most of her time has been spent with the Natchez Little Theater, but she has also been involved with the Festival of Music.

“When I’m on stage, I have more of a perspective on my own life,” Williams said.

“I understand myself better when I am on stage as another character.”

Williams has decided to pursue acting as more than a hobby. This January, she will apply to the Alabama School of the Fine Arts in Birmingham. If accepted, Williams will attend the boarding school and perfect her craft.

“My parents want me to do what I really love and it would make me happy to do theater everyday,” Williams said.

Williams will find out for sure if she has been accepted to the performing arts school in March. Until then, she will keep herself busy by performing on stage in Natchez. Currently, she can be seen in “A Natchez Christmas Carol” Tuesday night at 7:30 at the Natchez Little Theater.