Faces of ITS: Damaris Ruiz

Damaris Ruiz

How has theatre impacted your life?
Theatre has had a huge impact on my life. It has helped me grow tremendously as a person. It has helped me express myself and show the world who I really am.

What is one lesson you’ve learned from theatre?
One lesson I’ve learned throughout my theatre experience is how to be inclusive. With theatre, I am part of a community and have the amazing opportunity to create new friendships.

What has been your favorite theatre experience so far?
Being a State Thespian Officer for my second time throughout my four years of theatre. It brings me so much happiness, and it’s always incredible to be a part of the program.

Who is your theatre hero?
My theatre hero would have to be Laura Bell Bundy from Legally Blonde. [In the production], she shows that you can be anything you want to be. You can achieve so many things, which is truly inspiring.

What theatrical character or show best describes your life?
In the Heights. I can relate so much to the musical because it shows how a Hispanic kid goes on to live an American dream but ends up going through so much, realizing — only in the end — that his family and where he is now are what’s most important.