Ava Berutti of Westminster Christian Academy
Ava Berutti has a lot to look forward to. The recent Westminster Christian Academy graduate will be heading off to Missouri Baptist University to study psychology and theater. She wrapped up her senior year by playing the lead role in Cinderella—a performance that brought her acclaim. She won Outstanding Actress in a Lead Role at the St. Louis High School Theatre Awards, an accolade that put her in contention for The National High School Musical Theatre Awards, AKA The Jimmys.
When did you start performing?
The first production I remember being a part of was playing the titular role in Peter Pan when I was in preschool. I fell in love with being able to tell a story and how confident I could be on stage. I really got into theater because of my mom who was involved with The Muny. I loved the backstage atmosphere. Everyone was so excited, putting on wigs and beautiful costumes, and the sets at The Muny are so gorgeous. From when I was little, I took every opportunity I could to perform.
What is your favorite part of performing?
Making the audience feel something. In eighth grade, I played Marian in The Music Man. After one show, some sweet people came up to me and told me I made them cry. It’s such a cool experience to make an audience feel what the characters are feeling. That’s when it hit me how much I love this.
Do you have a most memorable role?
Playing Cinderella at Westminster brought me so many amazing opportunities. And who didn’t want to be a princess growing up? I also have a strong connection to Marian. Along with the eighth grade performance, I got to reprise the role in tenth grade. There’s something about the character that is like a warm hug. I would take any opportunity to play her again.
How did it feel to have your Cinderella performance recognized?
It’s been an unbelievable experience. When I was little, I never thought something like this could happen. I received so much support and so many opportunities. It’s been amazing to share with my family, who have watched me grow as a performer. I don’t have the words to describe what it means.
Are you excited to start university in the fall?
I’ve always been such a people person, and this has been such a social time. I’ve met so many amazing people. A lot of the theater department at MoBap have reached out to congratulate me and ask about going to The Jimmys. I haven’t stepped foot on campus, but I already feel welcomed. I’m also looking forward to working with the department heads, Dr. Jordan Cox and his wife, Kasey. They both came to see Cinderella, which was super encouraging to me.
What do you enjoy doing in your free time?
Theater doesn’t always leave you much time for you to do your own things. I like songwriting, reading and drawing—really anything where I can be in tune with the creative side of me. I love spending time with my family. I’ve never worked on a production during the summer because I wanted to use that time to be with them. Life is short, and if I continue to pursue performing, I may not have as much time with them.