Ruby finds their calling through a long and winding relationship with Jack Drum Arts

From an early age, Ruby was surrounded by creativity and performance. Their mother was actively involved with Jack Drum Arts and their older sister frequently participated in performances and outdoor theatre. It was only natural that Ruby and their younger sister, Samara, would follow in their footsteps and join Jack Drum Arts themselves. Their journey began with a summer school, which immediately introduced Ruby to the creative environment the organisation fostered.

“I made so many new friends, learnt so many creative skills and was proud of the project I took part in creating. And I wanted to experience more.”

This initial exposure ignited a passion within Ruby, leading them to continue their involvement by joining Jackass Juniors.

Giving their all and finding inspiration

“I remember thinking to myself how much I felt valued and part of something when creating the outdoor promenade shows at Hamsterley Forest in particular. These shows were everything to me. I put my heart and soul into each performance and helped as much as I could, but most of all I had a lot of fun!”

These performances held deep significance for them, as they allowed them to feel valued and connected to a larger artistic community. One of their most cherished productions was a World War I-themed show inspired by Wilfred Owen's poem, "Dulce et Decorum Est." Despite humorous memories—such as having to wipe the forehead of their good friend Dylan during a scene—they found the experience profoundly moving.

A particularly striking moment during this performance left a lasting impression on Ruby.

“A group of us small aspiring actors were all huddled together, peering through the bushes to witness the best scene in the whole entire show. The air became illuminated by a wealth of thick orange flames, as silhouettes of the soldiers ran across the field where we had made a stage. It was beautiful, I teared up at the sight. Honestly, I feel like that moment made me realise the power theatre has.”

This moment solidified their understanding of theatre’s power—to evoke emotion, tell important stories, and create beauty out of tragedy.

Recognising sanctuary, inspiring others, and seizing opportunities

Jack Drum became Ruby’s sanctuary, a place where they could fully express themelf. “Growing up as a carer for my mum I didn't have a lot of time to release my inner child, but this was the place I could comfortably do that. I could try a new style, wear new crazy makeup, or try a new hairstyle, I could open up about all of the things I love and be Ruby, without feeling judged.”

As they grew older, they took on the role of a young leader, aiming to preserve this welcoming atmosphere for younger members of the Jackass Youth Theatre. They recognized how daunting it could be for young people to communicate and express themselves and was committed to fostering an environment where they felt safe to do so.

In addition to theatre, Ruby harboured a deep passion for art, which Jack Drum helped them develop further. They contributed their artistic talents in various ways, from last-minute face painting to creating willow puppets. They also designed promotional materials, such as a flyer for a Jackass production and tote bag designs for B.O.P Fest. These opportunities not only strengthened their artistic skills but also deepened their love for creative expression. One such opportunity that Ruby treasures was the chance to go on a British Film Institute (BFI) short film course.

“It opened my eyes to the possibility of continuing my passion for the arts in film.”

Exploring their love of film and finding their calling

During the short course, Ruby discovered how much they thrived in the collaborative environment of a film set. They found the intensity, creativity and teamwork incredibly inspiring and realised it was a space where they could flourish as an artist. In particular, they became interested in makeup after assisting Kerry Nickelson on the short film 'Smiler'. As a talented young portrait artist who had spent years experimenting with different styles and materials, Ruby found that makeup felt like a natural extension of their artistic practice, opening up an entirely new creative pathway.

Ruby later progressed to a BFI Specialist Make-Up Course in London, which they describe as one of the most transformative experiences of their life. There, they collaborated with other makeup artists while learning from industry professionals including Guy Common (Cabaret), Erika Ökvist (Bridgerton, BAFTA winner), Naomi Dunn (The Beatles), and Carly Utting (MAC).

Ruby said: “Growing up as a creative person in what often felt like a very black-and-white world was quite anxiety-inducing, especially when conversations about future careers came up. I always knew that I was deeply passionate about creating, whether that was art, theatre, puppetry, film, or anything imaginative. Now I have found a career that allows me to combine my love for film with my love for art, using the face as my canvas. My role feels like a tiny brushstroke that helps create large, beautiful projects, made up of many other important brushstrokes, all collaborating and creating together.”

Ruby has secured an unconditional place at university with the goal of developing their skills further and building a career as a professional makeup artist working across film and theatre.

Through their experiences at Jack Drum, Ruby discovered the transformative power of theatre and art. They became essential tools for self-expression, learning, and connection—both for themself and for those around them. Now, as a mentor and leader, they continue to inspire and support others in their artistic journeys, ensuring that Jack Drum remains a place of creativity, freedom, and belonging.

“Jack Drum is truly an amazing creative environment, I can’t thank them enough for providing this space for me, without it I don’t think I would’ve been able to explore my love and talent for the arts, nor become the person I am today.”