The Observer, December 7, 2007
Volume XL, Issue 13
Case graduate balances arts and science as performer, researcher
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Jared Sampson is a 2003 Case graduate currently working as a research assistant in Focco van den Akker's lab in the department of biochemistry. Besides his job, Sampson's interests lie in the arts, as he is currently performing in Reflections, a cabaret of jazz performance at Kalliope Stage, running from Nov. 28 to Dec. 15. Sampson has answered some questions for aspiring artists here at Case.
Ramya Raman: What is your background in the arts? Has it been just a hobby, or have you been serious about it?
Jared Sampson: I've been singing since before I can remember, and got into theater in the seventh grade. Up until a year or so ago, it's been mostly a hobby, although I'd like to try my hand at performing in a bigger pond like New York City.
RR: Do you think theatere arts and sciences are compatible? Are they completely foreign subjects or do they overlap?
JS: don't know if they overlap exactly, but I would say they are definitely compatible. I like the dual-nature of my life right now; it gives both sides of my brain a workout.
RR: How were you involved in campus life when you were at Case? Did you have problems balancing school work?
JS: I was heavily involved with Footlighters, performing in five shows, directing two, and being vice president and president of the group my junior and senior years. Some of my best memories from college are Footlighters-related, and I met many of my closest friends through that group. As a student, though, and especially when I was directing a show, there were definitely some times that I had to choose between going to class and doing something for the show, and I almost always chose the show. I also sang with an a cappella quintet called Needless to Say, the Case Early Music Singers, the Case Men's Glee Club, and the Cleveland Orchestra Chorus.
RR: Do you have any advice for students at Case who are interested in arts and science? How should they balance their lives and interests?
JS: My advice is, if it makes you happy, do it. I'm not necessarily condoning slacking on homework and skipping class like I did, but there's something to be said for setting aside time to do something you love. My first job out of college was a carpenter for a theater--a job I really enjoyed, and one I got solely based on my experience with the Footlighters. I guess that just goes to show that employers may not look just at what you do in the classroom when they consider you for a position.
RR: How is your experience with Reflections?
JS: I'm really very excited to be working at Kalliope Stage this season. It's one of only a handful of true professional theaters in Cleveland, and the only one devoted entirely to musical theater. It's a really unique, intimate space, and I've learned a lot working with Paul Gurgol, the artistic director there. The caliber of productions has always been really high for the Kalliope Stage. I saw Cabaret a couple years ago and was blown away, and this season is no different. For Reflections I get to work with four other fantastic singers and an amazing trio on saxophone, piano, and drums. And there aren't too many other places where you get to do the kind of tight five-part jazz harmony that we're doing with this show. It's a thrilling experience.
Reflections runs until Dec. 15, and student discount tickets are available by calling the Kalliope box office at 216-321-0870.
