Arts Student of the Week Sophie Arnett-Simon

In seventh grade, Sophie Arnett-Simon traveled with her family to New York City for spring break. While they were there, they saw "Wicked" on Broadway. The moment the show started, Arnett-Simon knew that was what she wanted to do in life.

For a few years she convinced herself this dream was impossible, but now she is fully engaged in musical theater at Niwot High School, studying advanced drama and preparing for her role as Tim in the NHS fall production of "Noises Off," a play by Michael Frayn.

"Sophie is a dedicated and engaged student in our drama program," said NHS theater director Amanda Foust, who nominated Arnett-Simon for Arts Student of the Week. "As an actress, Sophie works hard to understand her characters and allow herself to grow." Performing in the school's musical last year restored Arnett-Simon's faith in herself to achieve her dreams.

"My favorite musical is constantly changing," Arnett-Simon said. "But as of right now it would have to be 'A Chorus Line.'" She is also a huge Barbra Streisand fan, and Streisand's work has had a big influence on how Arnett-Simon performs, especially while singing. "I can only really describe my interest in drama as my passion and calling in life. For me, I just know that this is what I am going to do the rest of my life, in one way or another, and that nothing else will bring me the same level of fulfillment."

When she is acting, Arnett-Simon brings her own life experience into the role. Even though the character's personality may be wildly different from her own, she tries to find some way to connect to the character in order to ensure that her performance is honest and authentic.

Arnett-Simon also loves to analyze scripts and character relationships, and by doing that she feels can find a deeper insight into the character she is playing.

"In class she leads with enthusiasm and always keeps spirits high and adds great energy to all lessons and activities," said Foust. "In our show, Sophie gives 100% and brings her character to life. Outside of school, Sophie participates in other acting opportunities and with such a busy schedule, Sophie does not let it get her stressed or overwhelmed. She comes in with a smile on her face and an eagerness to learn."

This is Arnett-Simon's junior year at NHS, and so far it has been an incredible experience. During her freshman year, her studies were completely online, which was difficult, she said, but starting sophomore year, everything at school was better.

Arnett-Simon's experience as a drama student at NHS has been extremely positive. "Everyone is super welcoming and the directing team is extremely supportive," she said. "Participating in NHS's productions has become my favorite part about school."

The theater community at the high school has really helped excite her to attend school each day, and Arnett-Simon is looking forward to her senior year. She plans to complete a BFA Musical Theater program in college. Afterwards, she plans to work as a professional stage actor on Broadway or with a national touring company.

Besides theater, Arnett-Simon loves music and reading. Though she said she does not read quite as much as she used to, she has always loved escaping into a different world. She also grew up around music, and has adopted this passion. She collects albums on vinyl and will often be found listening to music when she has the time.