Arts Student of the Week: Tula Baker

When Tula Baker accepted the role as understudy for Princess Natalia Dragomiroff in Niwot High School's November 2024 production, "Murder on the Orient Express," she knew it would require her to perform with a Russian accent.

An important character from the book by Agatha Christie, Dragomiroff is an elderly Russian aristocrat who fled to Europe from Russia with her husband.

Baker's teacher, Amanda Foust, was impressed by the way Baker embraced the role. "Within weeks of being cast," Foust said, "she had embraced the challenge, and she was extremely successful in pulling it off. Tula really shined in this role, showcasing her professionalism, dedication, and maturity as an actress."

To learn how different letters were pronounced, Baker watched many YouTube videos to learn how to place certain accents in certain places of the mouth. She would randomly start speaking to her friends in a Russian accent throughout the day.

"It is truly amazing to have her as a student outside of class, and she will begin taking theater courses soon," Foust said.

"Murder on the Orient Express" is Baker's favorite show, she said, "Because it is the only one I have participated in so far. I did watch 'Shrek' last year and it was phenomenal."

This is Baker's first year at NHS. Baker moved to Longmont after living in Eagle, Colorado for five years. "Living in Eagle was fun," Baker said. "I had lots of friends and the small town life was nice. My family and I often went rafting together in the summers and would hike and sometimes snowshoe or cross country ski!"

Before the move she worked with Vail Performing Arts Academy (VPAA) for 5 years. "That is where I started my love for theatre," she said. Baker's acting career has also been influenced by the American actor, singer, and songwriter Ben Platt, who is known for his role as Benji in "Pitch Perfect." In 2023 Platt received his second Tony Award nomination for his performance as Leo Frank in the 2023 musical revival of "Parade." Baker saw him perform this summer and finds him a wonderful actor. "His stage presence and dedication to his craft is inspiring," Baker said.

"Tula is an extraordinary actress," said Foust, who selected Baker as Arts Student of the Week. "Tula is a sophomore this year at Niwot and she has integrated into our theater program incredibly."

Baker loves theater because of the people who surround her there. "Theatre people are always welcoming, fun, always willing to support each other, and make you feel loved," she said. "The acting, singing and dancing is the cherry on top."

Baker's foremost memories around her NHS theater performance has been the bonding that occurs between cast members. "Meeting new people, having great teachers and an incomparable theatre director has made my first year at NHS special."

Baker enjoys golfing, hiking, attending concerts, visiting the mountains, and spending time with family and friends. She plans to go to business school and minor in theater after graduating from NHS, and then she would like to study cosmetology in Europe.

The family move to Niwot has been a positive experience. "There was so much more opportunity for both me and my sisters down here and we felt it was the right move for us. I have loved it so much more down here and I absolutely over all the new things i am exposed to in theater and at Niwot in general."