Mia Schlosser is a freshman from Westlake Village and was recently named a Finalist in The Music Center’s annual Spotlight program. 2021 is the 33rd year of the program and Mia’s first year participating. This Jewish ballerina made it to the finals, which speaks to her level of artistry and talent at such a young age.
Mia will receive a $5,000 cash scholarship and perform during the Grand Finale show, which will premiere first on YouTube on May 22 and will then air on PBS SoCal this summer (hosted by Josh Groban, a Spotlight alum!).
More than 1,500 students applied, but only 14 are selected as finalists after three rounds of auditions, performances and master classes. It’s a great accomplishment for young students dreaming of a future in the arts. The program nurtures young artists and provides performance opportunities and access to professional coaching all for free.
I asked Mia, “What do you love about ballet?”
She said, “One of my favorite aspects is the artistry side to dance. I love getting to play with the timing of the music, the shape of my arms, the head movements, how I place my feet, and especially how I express my face. The feeling of molding the choreography to my body makes me feel the happiest, and I am truly able to let go and find peace within myself. I also love performing because when I am on stage, I am unbothered. On stage, I feel the most true to myself, and I love seeing the choreography come alive!”
When asked, “What have you learned about yourself by way of your Spotlight experience?” Mia explained that “through Spotlight, I have learned to believe in myself. Going into the audition process, I had little confidence in my dancing, and I did not think that I would advance to the next round. Looking back, I wish I went in thinking that I could make it rather than doubting myself. This amazing program has been so supportive, and has helped me to have confidence in myself, but also in my dancing.“
In its history, more than 51,000 students high school students have come through Spotlight and have gone on to win Emmys and Grammys while performing with major orchestras and ballet companies.
Jeri Gaile, program director, former ballerina and actress explained what makes Spotlight so special:
“Spotlight is the complete package for high school students and is entirely free! Everything about the Spotlight program is constructive because we provide a constant learning and supportive environment for them. One key to success is the personalized coaching and feedback students receive before and after their auditions, outlining their strengths and areas to improve upon. We focus on preparing students for college and professional work whether they dream of a career on stage or off. Students of all skill levels are encouraged to apply. As long as they have passion in the arts, there’s a place for them in Spotlight.”
Gaile spoke about Mia becoming a finalist in her first try and what makes Mia special?
“Mia approaches the choreography with such finesse and it’s beautiful to watch, but that’s not what grabs me. I love her artistry. It’s the way she uses her arms, her head, her face, to express what she’s feeling. You are drawn in and can’t help but experience what she’s feeling. She engages the audience with her vulnerability, generosity, and heart. And that’s what the arts are about. They’re about engaging everyone.”
Mia Schlosser will be performing at Walt Disney Concert Hall for her finale performance: Flora’s Variation from the ballet: The Awakening of Flora. Composed by: Riccardo Drigo. Choreography by: Marius Petipa
MIA SCHLOSSER (BALLET) 15, is a freshman at Westlake High School. She has been training at California Dance Theatre for twelve years and is currently in the professional training platform. Awards include: Youth American Grand Prix, 2nd place (2021); A Ballet Education’s June Magazine cover (2020); scholarships to attend The Joffrey Ballet’s Summer course (2017), and Boston Ballet’s (2021). Mia is excited to attend the School of American Ballet’s summer course this year. She would like to thank Kim Maselli and all her incredibly supportive teachers at California Dance Theatre for continuously encouraging and believing in her dance journey. Mia would love to be to someday dance in a major ballet company. This is Mia’s first year participating in Spotlight.
