Mya Gonzales

2022 Theater Scholarship Recipient

Mya Gonzales, a 16-year-old actor, has had a lifelong passion for acting. She discovered her interest at the age of four and had her first performance at five, igniting a deep connection to the transformative power of storytelling. Mya thrives on emotionally and physically connecting with fellow artists, pushing her boundaries, and delving into the depths of her being to portray different characters. Acting has provided her with a creative outlet to explore and connect with various versions of herself, which she finds immensely fulfilling.

Mya has diligently pursued training in acting, attending numerous classes at studios in Los Angeles and Orange County since she was seven years old. In 7th grade, she was accepted into the Orange County School of the Arts (OCSA) Acting Conservatory, where she has been able to challenge her emotional boundaries, perform classic plays, and enhance her ability to connect with others. One of her notable roles at OCSA was playing Masha in "The Seagull." In 2019, Mya achieved a significant milestone when she landed a small speaking role in the film "C'mon C'mon" without any representation. Sharing a scene with Joaquin Phoenix was an unforgettable experience that fueled her determination to navigate the challenging industry.

With a strong desire to focus on her acting education, Mya applied to the University of North Carolina School of the Arts (UNCSA) Drama summer intensive program. She aims to work in a conservatory environment that nurtures her craft and plans to apply to UNCSA for her college education during her senior year at OCSA. Mya is particularly drawn to the professionalism and artistic dedication exhibited by UNCSA's intensive program. As the first person on her father's side of the family to attend college, she sees a summer intensive as a crucial stepping stone to prepare for her future as a college student and professional actor.