Standing on stage in front of a captivated audience while completely transformed into a unique character is something that defines junior Sam Ruiz. A performer and drama queen at heart, she said she enjoys entertaining others and utilizes every opportunity to pursue her dream of acting.
For Ruiz, acting has always been an important part of her life. Beginning lessons at the young age of 4, involving herself in student productions throughout grade school and, of course, starring in the plays at Sion, Ruiz’s involvement is impressive.
“Acting is literally my life. If I am not involved in a production, I get antsy and don’t know what to do with myself,” Ruiz said. “It has always been a part of who I am and allows me to get away and escape from everyday life.”
At even the slightest mention of the subject of theater, Ruiz lights up. It is obvious to those around her that she has a genuine passion and enthusiasm for acting.
Outside of the Sion community, Ruiz has participated in the Rockhurst productions and has taken summer classes at Blue River Community College and the Missouri Scholars Academy. But for her, she said, acting isn’t something that will end after high school, and she has plans to continue this passion for the rest of her life.
“I plan on triple majoring in Theatre Education, Musical Theater and English. And from there, my dream would be to go on to Broadway, but truthfully I would be happy performing in any opportunity I could get,” Ruiz said. “But eventually I want to end up as a high school drama and English teacher.”
Her involvement in acting at Sion, Ruiz said, has been largely due to the inspiration and support of senior Lauren Martin, who is not only a fellow actress but a friend found in the Sion productions.
“She is a fantastic actress and takes things seriously. She’s a very hard worker and it’ll take her far,” Martin said. “Sam is a leader and if someone forgets the step to a dance or a note in a song or a word in a dialogue, she’ll help them because she always knows everything. Sam is a fun person to work with and is always respectful.”
Ruiz said she has her pre-performance ritual down to a science. It prepares her mentally and physically for the production ahead.
“My ritual is extremely important. I do a quick vocal warm up and drink water,” Ruiz said. “But the most important part is giving my best friend a hug at the last possible second before I go on.”
Rehearsals and preparation for this spring’s student-led production, “Jabberwock”, is currently occupying much of Ruiz’s time, especially due to her position as the assistant director. Along with having a supporting role as the housemaid, Gertie, Ruiz helps senior Marina Dennis, the play’s director, with staging, direction, lighting and sound.
Dennis serves as a model for Ruiz, who is using this year to observe and prepare for her chance to direct next year’s production along with sophomore Kel Lowndes. Dennis is confident in the girls’ potential and passion for acting.
“I believe the person who most wants to do the job the most deserves it and will make every effort to do the job to the best of their abilities,” Dennis said. “Of that I know that Sam and Kel are those people.”