Today we’d like to introduce you to Ruff Yeager
Hi Ruff, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
I was raised an attended school in San Diego’s east county, beginning in Santee, then La Mesa, then Spring Valley, then Lemon Grove, and finally back to Spring Valley. I graduated from Helix High School where I was encouraged and inspired by Christine Moretti, a dynamic speech teacher. I continued exploring the world of drama and the theatre in college, graduating with a B.S. in Communications and completing my studies with an M.A. in Theatre Arts. Acting was my gateway into the world of theatre and soon thereafter I began directing and writing plays. I’ve acted in and directed over 100 plays throughout the U.S.: from San Diego to New York City. About fifteen years ago, I left the life of a freelance artist behind and became a professor of Theatre Arts at Southwestern College in Chula Vista. I am privileged to spend every working day encouraging our talented and passionate students, just as Ms. Moretti did for me when I was in high school. We produce 6 shows a year: 2 in the fall, 2 in the spring, and 2 in the summer. This year, I will direct 5 of the 6 offerings. Upcoming are our big spring musical, “On Your Feet! The Story of Emilio & Gloria Estefan”, followed by student-written one-acts, “Southwestern Student Shorts”, and then “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” in the summer.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
If you asked any freelance artist if they’ve experienced struggles, I’ll bet most of them would say, “How much time have you got? Pull up a chair friend.” As performing artists do their best to pay the bills, they experience rejection – almost on a daily basis, are always on the lookout for the next gig, and waiting for their big break. My story is no different; however, the way I approached my craft was to always say “yes!” As each new opportunity was presented to me, I took the opportunity to learn very seriously and soon became a jack-of-all-trades. I would sometimes have 3 or 4 projects going at one time: acting in one, directing one, writing/composing one, and doing sound design for another. This approach served me well and soon I was working non-stop.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I’m in the 35th year of my professional career and my artistic journey can be broken down into thirds. During the first decade, I was primarily an actor, specializing in classic texts (Shakespeare and classic period works.) The second decade found my interest and opportunities directing me to writing and directing – often directing plays that I had written. During this period, I was fortunate enough to be awarded the Craig Noel Award from the San Diego Theatre Critic’s Circle for Best New Play, “Bronze”, which I also directed for the edgy Sledgehammer Theatre. I also received several other awards for acting, directing, and design. In my third decade, I began to teach acting as an adjunct instructor at Southwestern College. I became a full-time associate professor in 2016 and was made a full professor in 2020. I’m proud of the range of work that I’m able to collaborate on with my students and colleagues: Shakespeare, big musicals, comedies, dramas. My 30-plus years of experience and a wide-ranging career have provided me with the knowledge and flexibility necessary to navigate all genres of dramatic literature.
Alright, so to wrap up, is there anything else you’d like to share with us?
Consider this a personal invite to attend our productions at the brand-new Performing Arts Center on the Chula Vista campus of Southwestern College. We produce 6 shows a year: 2 in the fall, 2 in the spring, and 2 in the summer.
Pricing:
- $20 for “On Your Feet!” Tickets
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.swctheatre.com
- Instagram: @swctheatre
- Facebook: SWC Theatre Arts
Image Credits
Photo credit: Daren Scott
