Sophina

Q: What brought you to Mosaic? 

A: I was interested in theatre from a young age and my school programs weren’t satisfying the hunger I had for it. My parents learned of Mosaic as an environment that helped young artists flourish. I joined when I was 10 and stayed for 4 years.

Q: What’s the most impactful thing you learned/gained from participating in Mosaic?  

A: Mosaic instilled a strong work ethic and gave me a wonderful sense of community. It was my first time being around other young people who loved theatre just as much as I did and I cherished that commonality. I found so much joy in working toward a common goal with a group of people who shared the same passions and values. That’s something I still cherish about working in theatre today.

Q: What are you up to now? Is there anything about your Mosaic experience you carry with you in your work? In life?

A: After my time at Mosaic I spent two years at Interlochen Center for the Arts and went on to get a BFA in Acting from the UMN/Guthrie Theater Program. I am now based in Minneapolis, MN and work as a professional actor, assistant director, producer, playwright, theatre educator, and stage combat assistant. I still carry with me a sense of discipline and professionalism that began during my time with Mosaic.

Q: What, if any, difference/impact has Mosaic made in Detroit? In the world?  

A: Mosaic has given Detroit an artistic footprint and a reputation for training incredible young performers. Many prestigious arts schools and training programs lack financial accessibility. Mosaic provides excellent training that is also accessible. The arts industry can sometimes feel very elitist; if you don’t have the resources, you’re out of luck. This starts early. It starts with artistic training for young people. And Mosaic is creating a pathway for young artists who might not otherwise have one.

Q: Please finish the phrase “Mosaic is…”  

A: …where dreams become goals.