It’s the city that never sleeps, the Big Apple, New York City.
It’s considered the cultural capital of the world, known for its musical and theatrical movements.
But for Yazoo City native Thomas Rush, it’s just another day at work. Pounding the pavement of the concrete jungle, Rush is chasing his dreams in the city that never sleeps.
“I feel so blessed to be living what I consider my dream,” Rush said. “I keep God first in my life, and I definitely give Him all the glory for any successes and failures that I have experienced in my journey.”
Rush began his artistic journey in 2012 when he released his first children’s book, Can A Pig Swim?.
Rush even returned to his alma mater Manchester Academy to read his first publication with local students.
“This book allowed me to share a story of encouragement with both young and old,” Rush said.
Since then, Rush has completed two follow-up stories to Can A Pig Swim?. The illustrations are currently being completed.
A year after his first children’s book, Rush moved to Bethlehem, Pa., about an hour away from New York City. The stage was calling his name, and he was ready to embark on a new venture.
“I immediately started auditioning for theater companies and any other projects I felt a connection with,” Rush said. “The area I live is called the Lehigh Valley, and there are many opportunities for the stage and small screen.”
The past year has proven to be a success for young Rush. He has performed in six productions in this year alone, the most he has ever done in his career.
Some of his most memorable performances include The Foreigner, Charlotte’s Web, The Bartender Chronicles and Little Shop of Horrors.
“The Bartender Chronicles was actually a premier and wonderful production written by a local playwright and now friend, Brian McDermott,” Rush said. “This process was very new in that we were constantly having re-writes up until tech week. It was chaotic, yet one of the most exciting experiences.”
Rush was also extremely proud of his portrayal of Mr. Mushnick, shop owner, in Little Shop of Horrors.
“It was such a great experience,” he said. “I worked with After Work Theater Project, and the premise was to go from rehearsal to stage in just three weeks. It was the toughest thing I have ever done in theater and such a growing experience.”
Rush was also able to be a part of To Kill a Mockingbird at PA Playhouse.
“We had a 12-show run with a presentation and visit from Academy Award nominee, Mary Badham who played the original Scout in the film To Kill A Mockingbird with Gregory Peck,” Rush said.
Rush also continues to pursue acting in film and television.
“The process is so different in preparation as oppose to theater,” Rush said. “I will be filming a pilot for a new television show in the coming months based in New York City. Unfortunately, I cannot say anymore at this time, other than this is very exciting opportunity to work with some very talented people.”
And when he is not on stage, Rush can be found in front of a canvas. Taking breaks from acting, he spends his time painting.
“I have recently been invited to be a part of a limited engagement at a local gallery celebrating the life of Frank Sinatra celebrating 100 years this year,” Rush said. “I am contributing two pieces to this collection.”
With everything happening to Rush as he explores his creative ventures, he still remembers his Yazoo home. Relocating from a small, Southern community has been quite different yet exciting.
“I feel like I am constantly learning something new,” he said. “I am told I am losing or have lost most of my Southern accent. Ironically, I actually had to have a dialect coach work with me on my Southern accent for two productions that took place in the South, The Foreigner and To Kill a Mockingbird.”
But Rush is a planner, ready to see what happens next. He even continues as to work as a registered nurse in a clinic.
“I definitely see myself continuing to work with people,” he said. “I enjoy helping and serving others whether that be through nursing or on the stage. I am blessed to be able to have a career in both.”
And then there is always the bright lights and big dreams.
“I hope to make it to Broadway eventually in whatever capacity the opportunity presents,” Rush said. “Patience and perseverance is key.”
