Q&A with Simone Leath
Q: What brought you to Mosaic?
A: During my junior year of high school, I had decided I wanted to become more involved in my school’s theatre department (Detroit School of Arts). At the time, I was a visual arts major, but had always loved theatre. After stage managing my first show, I realized that I wanted to learn and do more with that role. A few weeks after our show had closed, an application to Mosaic’s Backstage program had opened up, and I decided to apply the day before the deadline.
Q: What’s the most impactful thing you learned/gained through your participation in Mosaic?
A: The most impactful thing I gained in Mosaic is the confirmation that I’m ready where I am. Despite having only worked in technical theatre for a short time, I had found myself in such an interesting position. You have kids that have trained most of their lives in theatre, and I happened to show up in January to stage manage my first Mosaic show. An important part of growth is going for things and trusting that you are there for a reason. It was great to be a part of a team that helped affirm my purpose in Mosaic.
Q: Did you attend college? If so, where did you go? How did your Mosaic experience support you in college?
A: I’m currently attending Western Michigan University, majoring in Advertising and Promotion, with a minor in Theatre. After leaving Mosaic before my senior year, I had started participating in other tech crews and then acting, including an improv group. I came back to stage management in college, where I was the stage manager for Theatre for Community Health during my freshman year at Western. Being in Mosaic, I was given exposure to so many different elements of theatre, and it helped confirm that my passions could coexist.
Q: What are you up to now? Is there anything about your Mosaic experience that you carry with you in your work? In life?
A: I am currently finishing my degree. Something I remember hearing during my time at Mosaic is that “Technical theatre is a thankless job”. In all career endeavors, I hope to pave a way for a more inclusive future, and I often think about the opportunities I was afforded during my time starting in theater. While technical theatre and so many other things in life are thankless jobs, I try to show people that I appreciate them and what they do. I am grateful for having taken a chance by applying, but eternally grateful for those that took a chance on me.
Q: What, if any, difference/impact has Mosaic made in Detroit? In the world?
A: Mosaic has given young artists a space for their passions, and a way to collaborate with each other. I still run into people I’ve met in Mosaic, and it’s always great to see how you both have grown and how your passions have helped shape your lives.
Q: Is there anything else you’d like to share?
A: I’m thankful for all of these opportunities, and excited for what comes next.
Q: Please finish the phrase “Mosaic is…”
A: …just the beginning.
