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Wednesday, September 23, 2015

Spotlight On...Mia Raye Smith

Name: Mia Raye Smith

Hometown: Detroit, Mi Education: William Esper Studio

Favorite Credits: Black Actress Web Series

Why theater: Theatre is a universal cultural phenomenon that exists in every society around the world.

What inspired you to write I Am Hope?: I have been imitating my family members since I was a child. Before I was diagnosed with Agoraphobia, I took Matt Hoverman Go solo workshop level one. I developed some awesome characters. I didn't get back to he's class until the following year. I never planned on talking about my mental health diagnosis. On the first day of level two class I stood up and said ‘ I'm glad to be back outside I haven't left my house in six months’. At times it was hard to me to commute to class but that was all a part of my journey In finding hope.

What kind of theatre speaks to you? What or who inspires you as an artist?: Solo shows always speak to me because the artist takes the audience on a journey. I'm inspired by Dominique Morisseau, she is playwright from Detroit, MICHIGAN. Her work is phenomenal. I'm also inspired by people that never give up and continue on this journey.

If you could work with anyone you've yet to work with, who would it be?: I would work with John Leguizamo! He's brilliant!

Who would play you in a movie about yourself and what would it be called?: I think Quvenzhane Wallis would play me. The movie would be called “Black Girl Magic”.

If you could go back in time and see any play or musical you missed, what would it be?: Lady Day definitely!

What's your biggest guilty pleasure?: Salt and vinegar chips.

If you weren't working in theatre, you would be ______?: I would probably be developing apps for lifestyle needs.

What’s up next?: I'm hoping to go on tour next year!