Shakespeare and Surfing
Sky Heuss spent years of his life traveling all over the world to surf some of the greatest waves known to humankind. The 39-year-old enjoyed the tropical islands of Hawaii, lived in sunny Australia for three years, where he found a ‘surfer’s paradise,’ and rode the warm crystal blue waters of Mexico.
But now, he resides in the South Bay where his typical day consists of teaching middle school kids language arts and theater. He’s been teaching for about six years and says it’s a truly rewarding experience.
Before teaching and after living in Australia, Heuss went to college at the University of California, Berkeley where he studied theater and English. After graduating, he worked in theater for The California Shakespeare in San Francisco and for the Aurora Theatre Company in Berkeley.
Now, he’s passing on his theatrical skills to younger generations and teaching them how to interpret plays and become creative leaders.
Sky Heuss has spent time exploring famous surf spots around the world.
Now, a typical day in his life consists of teaching middle school kids
Shakespeare. | Photo by Rachel Ramos
“All that education and storytelling and interpersonal communication and interpretation and creative theory and collaborative problem-solving has really enriched my teaching,” he says. “It was a wonderful part of my life and I’m happy that I did it.”
But when Heuss isn’t teaching, he’s surfing – even when the conditions are not so great.
“The surf is not that good today in El Porto, but it’s so beautiful today,” he says. “ I just had to be out there.”
Heuss’ favorite part of surfing is riding high performance waves.
He was raised in Laguna Beach in Orange County – practically brought up on the sand and in the water.
“Surfing is a part of the culture here in Southern California. The climate is really gentle … It’s very temperate. It’s very calm.”
California’s calm climate matches Heuss’ cool and collected personality and lifestyle.
The Southern California native also ventured outside of his comfort zone when he spent two summers living in New York as a producer and a director.
“New York wasn’t quite the right fit for me … I missed SoCal.”
After spending time in the fast-paced metropolitan world of New York and having roots in the quieter small coastal city of Laguna Beach, Heuss wanted a mix between the two, which is why he now resides in the South Bay. Heuss lives in Manhattan Beach and is a regular surfer at El Porto.
“It’s diverse in Los Angeles,” he says. “There’s always a lot going on here.”
When asked if he has any advice for young people trying to achieve a successful career, his response if full of hope.
“Follow your bliss, man,” he says. “If it makes you happy, then it’s worth doing. Keep searching for whatever it is that’s inspiring you and is worthwhile. Life is precious, so don’t waste it.”
