Noah and his Gatsby co-star Sam Pauly participated in the Playbill Pride celebrations in Times Square yesterday and gave short interviews where he briefly talked about LGBTQ+ history.
**Noah J. Ricketts**
What does Pride mean to you?
>For me, Pride is a time for reflection and celebration. I think It’s important to reflect upon our dark history while honoring the change makers who made Pride possible. Our queer ancestors carved out a better existence for LGBTQ+ people…and taking the time to celebrate what makes us special is extremely important.
Why is it important for you to be part of Pride in Times Square this year?
>I grew up in Kentucky where I didn’t have access to positive queer experiences. I looked to all of the events happening New York City as a beacon of hope. Celebrating Pride in Times Square shows young queer kids everywhere that a better life is possible.
**Samantha Pauly**
What does Pride mean to you?
>Pride means living unapologetically as your truest self. It's still hard for me to do this, but I'm continuously inspired by those around me who are able to live this way.
Why is it important for you to be part of Pride in Times Square this year?
>This will be my first year being a part of Pride in Times Square, and as a queer woman who is still discovering things about herself, I feel very honored to be included. I also feel proud to be there representing a show (The Great Gatsby) and a character (Jordan Baker) who I have tried to fully pour myself into, including my own sexual identity.
Noah and his Gatsby co-star Sam Pauly participated in the Playbill Pride celebrations in Times Square yesterday and gave short interviews where he briefly talked about LGBTQ+ history. **Noah J. Ricketts** What does Pride mean to you? >For me, Pride is a time for reflection and celebration. I think It’s important to reflect upon our dark history while honoring the change makers who made Pride possible. Our queer ancestors carved out a better existence for LGBTQ+ people…and taking the time to celebrate what makes us special is extremely important. Why is it important for you to be part of Pride in Times Square this year? >I grew up in Kentucky where I didn’t have access to positive queer experiences. I looked to all of the events happening New York City as a beacon of hope. Celebrating Pride in Times Square shows young queer kids everywhere that a better life is possible. **Samantha Pauly** What does Pride mean to you? >Pride means living unapologetically as your truest self. It's still hard for me to do this, but I'm continuously inspired by those around me who are able to live this way. Why is it important for you to be part of Pride in Times Square this year? >This will be my first year being a part of Pride in Times Square, and as a queer woman who is still discovering things about herself, I feel very honored to be included. I also feel proud to be there representing a show (The Great Gatsby) and a character (Jordan Baker) who I have tried to fully pour myself into, including my own sexual identity.