Perched on a high stool near Kingston High School’s Commons, she introduced herself as Cami Floyd, “as in Pink.” Thus began a high-intensity, enthusiastic life story of Fine Arts Boosters’ featured artist for October.
The FAB Spotlight is on the art of drama — teacher Alison Roberts chose Cami, 17, a senior, to star in this role.
With three brothers — one just a baby — and two moms, Cami moved here from California six years ago. At age 11, she started acting in the Kitsap Children’s Musical Theater in “Charlie Brown.”
It is hard to believe when you meet this dynamic young woman that she “had awful stage fright and I was so shy” in “David Ives,” her first Kingston High School production.
“The worst is waiting to go on stage, but once you are there you feel achieved.”
She added, “Life is hard and a theater cast is like a family where one comes out of one’s shell and is a different person while in character. We work together for a common goal.”
Cami talked about how crazy and hectic an actor’s life can be before a show: the week before the 2011 musical, “Back to the ’80s,” it snowed so much that after-school rehearsals were canceled. They practiced lines whenever and wherever.
“Singing gives me a beautiful feeling,” said Cami, president of Choir Club. She says her friends think it strange she loves math, and though drama will be favored in college, math may be her major as she is considering medical school. Musical theater is her special passion and she is looking forward to her favorite, “Rent,” coming to Seattle.
When asked how the North Kitsap community can best benefit from and support the talents of Kingston High School artists, she said, “That’s a hard one. We struggle with that. Folks just need to come to our events.” (And buy the fundraiser lollipops that drama students are selling.)
Cami mentioned the play, “The Laramie Project,” was chosen by students to enlighten the community.
“It was a serious play, and if we reached one person (it was) worthwhile. When it made people cry we knew it was important.” Drama teacher Roberts is known for directing complex and thought-provoking plays.
In-person encounters are such a rich experience. FAB is finding ways of connecting these amazing high school students with the community. Don’t miss getting to know them.
