Donata Bova-Ford

Grade: 10

Future college: Undecided

Future Job: Actress on Broadway or special needs teacher

Years in theater: 10

Inspiration: Friends and family

Wingspan: What was it like to be the lead in Singing in the Rain?
Bova-Ford: “It was such a memorable experience. Going into the show I didn’t expect to get the lead at all since I am an underclassman, so when the cast list came out I was pleasantly surprised. Due to me getting the lead I was really able to get to know all the seniors which I am forever grateful for them. They helped me so much throughout the process, without them I truly believe it wouldn’t have been the same experience. Overall I was truly blessed to be chosen to be Kathy.”

Wingspan: How has theater affected your life?
Bova-Ford: “When I was younger I didn’t really know what I wanted to do/be. I tried everything from soccer to dance, but when I started dance, I really connected with not only the dancing but the story that went along with it. With that I wanted to explore the other side to it, which was acting and singing! Ever since then I have been hooked on theatre! Theatre has helped me get out of my shell, it has helped me find this confidence in myself which I don’t believe I could have found doing anything else. Also I definitely wouldn’t have the friends I have today.The people around me have helped the person I am today.”

Wingspan: What’s been your favorite memory?
Bova-Ford: “My favorite memory, I don’t really have one. I am so grateful for each and every moment that I’ve experienced with every show I’ve done. Even my mental breakdowns I am grateful for because even though they weren’t the best times they definitely made me work harder towards my goal which is to make sure whatever show I am In or whatever role I get, to make it the best one yet.”

Wingspan: What other shows have you been in? What were they like?

Bova-Ford:  “To be completely honest I don’t really know how many shows I’ve been in but if I had to take a guess it would have to be 15. I know it doesn’t seem like much, but the process is pretty long. My most previous roles that wasn’t singing in the rain is Beth in Little Women, Polly in Crazy For You, and Jasmine in Aladdin. Each of the shows I absolutely loved due to each show I do are so different! I go from being a Disney Princess to being a cowgirl. The diversity in shows amazes me and brings on a new challenge to each role I play. Also with every new show brings new people to get to know and soon become friends which is personally my favorite part of the process.”

Wingspan: How do you prepare for a show?
Bova-Ford: “Usually before a show I tend to walk around a lot. When I walk around my nerves seem to settle so when I get on stage I’m ready to bring it. Another pre show ritual I have even though it isn’t the healthiest, I love to drink root beer. If I don’t have a root beer before every show it’s bad luck for me. I’ve always done this since my first show so of course I had to do it for Singin In The Rain. Lastly I like to go around to everyone and say break a leg, I believe that in order to have a strong show you have to have a close relationship with your company. Being the lead, even though I’m still an underclassmen, I wanted to show a good example to the freshman and welcome them to the family.”

Wingspan: What have you learned about yourself through the arts?

Bova-Ford: “I have learned many things about myself but the most impactful to me is that I found my inner beauty. In show business there is so much type casting and stereotypes placed on people, with that I have learned that it doesn’t matter what I look like or how I sound. If I don’t get the role I want or I don’t get casted at all I know that there is another opportunity just around the corner so there is no need for me to be sad or down on myself. I am who I am, so truly with theatre I have grown into myself and I know what I can accomplish, I can accomplish anything I put my mind to.”

Wingspan: Are you considering to pursue theater in college?

Bova-Ford: “Of course.Theatre is apart of who I am so why not do it in college. Since I’m only a sophomore I obviously haven’t committed to any college but I definitely have an idea of where I want to go.”

Wingspan: What made you chose theater?

Bova-Ford: “Ever since I was a kid I’ve always been so connected to music. I used to always sing in my room and act like I was a famous, but the difference is I never sang to pop songs I’d always sing with more classical music like opera. Another thing that led me to choosing Musical Theatre is that I am very dramatic so I’ve never been scared to be crazy in front of other people. I’ve always had this urge to just make people say “wow she’s talented” and I just never felt connected with any sport I played. Everything changed when I started dance classes because I knew if I could perfect this I could get that “ wow she’s talented!” Now here I am today perfecting this thing called Musical Theatre.”

Wingspan: How do you balance theater with school and your social life?

Bova-Ford:  “To be completely honest I am the biggest procrastinator in the world. But usually when I am in a show I get my work done in school like during advisory and even when we have free time in class. After late night rehearsals I like just to sit and talk to my family about all that’s going on because they help me through the show process even my mental breakdowns. Also my friends help me with getting notes I missed or even just another outlet to say all I’m feeling.With that it pushes me to get my work done.”

Wingspan: What is your advice to anyone interested in theater?
Bova-Ford: “Join theater, there is no other department like it in the school. Theatre truly helps with self confidence and maybe it’s not what you want to do as a profession, but it definitely can teach you a lot about yourself. Also the people involved in the department from Mrs. Willingham to the freshman are just so amazing. So if you are thinking of joining theatre don’t be scared, we are all one big happy family with open arms.”