Interview Series

1. If you could live out your WILDEST dream with no fear of failure, what would you be doing?

Every musical theatre gals dream....dancin’ on BROADWAY! I could care less what role...I just wanna kick face & belt for my life!! Broadway is my wildest dream!!!

2. What is the most memorable, funniest, or craziest thing that has happened to you on your entertainment journey?

Oh so many things! Funniest?...I was performing at Carowinds amusement park in a Christmas show & had to take on the entirety of “Santa Baby” last minute. The other soloist was sick & couldn’t make the show. It didn’t even cross my mind to double check the lyrics before the show began (I mean...at this point I have heard her sing it at least 300 million times). I got on stage & blanked the moment I started to sing her solo. Oh, but that’s not all!!! I didn’t even TRY to cover it...instead I did the MOST awkward giggle you have ever in your life heard & mumbled jibberish into the mic. Nobody will notice.... it’s not like it’s not one of the most iconic & well known Christmas songs on this planet. My cast all broke character & we laughed our way through the rest of the show. I never lived that one down.

Craziest?! I was performing at a benefit in Los Angeles & nearly had a heart attack before I went on stage. I walked into the holding area & Fran Drescher stood before me. I lost my mind. “The Nanny” still to this day is my favorite show!! She is just as fabulous in person... just in case you were wondering!!!

Memorable?! The last semester of my senior year in college I got to go out with a bang & play Janet Van DeGraff in The Drowsy Chaperone. What a fun show to close out my college career! I’ll never forget the feeling of busting through the doors center stage for my grand entrance in the opening number. It was such a feel good moment having such a bold entrance playing one of my favorite characters, spotlight beaming on my face, hearing the thunderous applause from the audience & wearing the most fabulous costumes!! That moment made me feel so excited & reminded me of why I love what I do.

3. Congratulations! You just hit the lottery for 100 million dollars! What do you spend it on?

Pay off debt for my friends, family & myself. I hate for anyone to have financial stress & if I could relieve that from anyone I know, it would make me so happy! I would then take those same people on a gorgeous vacation (I’m thinking Bora Bora for an overwater bungalow experience!!!) Next, I would purchase a home somewhere warm! Pittsburgh, I love you...but this cold awful winter is no longer my friend. I would then love to open a gorgeous dance studio!! I love teaching & have always dreamt of owning a studio that focuses on so much more than just dance. I would also open a boutique. This is my life long dream. I love fashion, unique finds & helping other people feel fabulous in how they look! Lastly, I would love to fund arts programs in low income communities. I think it would be amazing to create a scholarship program. I have watched the arts change my life & so many of my students lives. I want everyone to have the opportunity to experience all aspects of the performing arts!

4. Do you have any hidden talents or party tricks?

Party trick.. I can take my drink (full glass), put it on my head and slide into a full split from a standing position & never spill an ounce.

5. What advice would you give to your younger self?

You are unique. You are special. You are strong. You have the ability to do anything your heart desires. Never ever take hard work for granted. Even if you aren’t seeing immediate results, that’s ok! You’re getting 1% better each and every day. Your day will come. Clap for others because one day they will be clapping for you, too. There is room in this business for everyone! Never give up on your dreams & always be kind!!!!

6. Who, in the entertainment industry, do you love that you think more people should know about? Why? Shout them out and spread the love!

My lovely friend Marissa Mayer! She is the funniest human I know. She has the most gorgeous ballet technique & has an equally amazing voice! Not to mention, she is an incredible friend. She hears you out, always gives the best advice & is the most encouraging human! You will love her!

https://instagram.com/marissaruthmayer