We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Sam Gordon. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Sam below.
Sam, we’re thrilled to have you sharing your thoughts and lessons with our community. So, for folks who are at a stage in their life or career where they are trying to be more resilient, can you share where you get your resilience from?
My resilience is a choice that I recommit to every day; Sometimes I even have to recommit to it more than once a day. Grief and depression are extremely strong forces that have ripped so much away from me, but they’ve also made me stronger. I wish that weren’t the case, but it’s the silver-lining I choose to acknowledge. Two years ago, my dad committed suicide. It was (and continues to be) the most devastating and earth-shattering thing that could ever happen in my life.
My dad was my best friend and favorite person. Losing him so suddenly and tragically nearly destroyed me. It took time, medication, therapy, and support from loved ones, but eventually I was able to channel my grief into resilience for his sake. My dad gave me all the qualities I love the most about myself; convection in my beliefs, passion, generosity, and confidence. He believed in my artistry and encouraged my dream of pursuing writing and directing theatre in New York City. All that I do as an artist is driven by my wish to make my dad proud.
I can’t undo his death, but I can try to move forward and live for the both of us. I know that’s what he wanted, and that is what drives me to hold on to my resilience.
Let’s take a small detour – maybe you can share a bit about yourself before we dive back into some of the other questions we had for you?
Hello! My name is Sam and I am a lesbian theatre artist based in NYC, but originally from Ventura County, CA. I write, direct, and handcraft all kinds of work for the stage and otherwise. I am interested in creating art that brings magical elements to an everyday reality. I strive to use whimsey and humor to illuminate dark, complex stories surrounding women, lesbians, and the queer community.
I am in my final semester as a directing major at Pace University where I will soon show an original short play in my senior directing showcase. The short play is titled “Monstress of Seduction” and is inspired by lesbian pulp fiction novels. It explores the challenges that come with confronting internalized homophobia through a sexy and thrilling fantasy.
After I graduate, my attention will go toward producing and directing a play I wrote with my best friend, Madelynne Whitt, at the Players Theatre. The play is titled “The Divine Dating Game” and it’s a choose your own adventure style play where the audience gets to vote on what decisions the main character makes. It’s super silly and campy, and I’m looking forward to tackling this challenging format in that tone.
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
The three qualities that have been the most impactful on my journey are passion, determination, and preparedness. Passion is at the center of all of my endeavors; it has to be. To care so deeply and feel so strongly about something will drive you as far as you can go. Pursue the things you’re passionate about and the drive will come naturally. Determination is essential as well; when faced with adversity, you have to remember why you’re doing what you’re doing. You have to find different ways to make it work and get creative if necessary. Lastly, being prepared is truly the key to success. I love to make lists to keep track of things and organize my tasks and thoughts. Showing up as prepared as possible will allow you to move with ease and expertise. Plan ahead and make it happen.
Okay, so before we go we always love to ask if you are looking for folks to partner or collaborate with?
I am always open to collaborating with new folks! I am interested in working with lesbian artists, queer artists, and non-male artists. I love working with people who are silly, creative, and have a great sense of humor. There is nothing that brings me more joy than working with lovely people to create something meaningful and fun together. Please reach out!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://samheathergordon.com
- Instagram: sam.heather
Image Credits
Maria Urbie
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