The inability to perform in person during the pandemic has impacted many Penn State performersâ mental health. Jacob Malizio, a member of the Penn State Thespian Society, said he performed in a few virtual shows, but the energy from a filled theater cannot be replicated over Zoom. âIt's definitely taken a big toll on my mental health,â Malizio (freshman-theater studies and public relations) said. âPerforming is my passion â it's my lifeblood â and I haven't been on a stage performing live since last February.â Also missing the feeling of performing in front of a live audience, Kaitlyn Hammerschmidt, a dancer for Orchesis Dance Company, said she always gained confidence by seeing the engagement of the crowd and her supporters.