Mia Daley

Who are you? How do you define yourself as an artist?

My name is Mia Daley, and I am a singer, actress, dancer, and current Miss Rhode Island 2026! I am a sophomore at Salve Regina University, where I am studying Theatre with a minor in Communication. Performing has been my entire life, and I fully intend to make it my career. I have been involved in over 50 theatrical productions, with some of my favorite credits including The Sound of Music at Theatre By The Sea, Escape to Margaritaville at NBFT , and The Great Comet at Salve Regina. I’ve also had the incredible opportunity to perform at Lincoln Center, 54 Below, Don’t Tell Mama and more! I have spent years training in voice, acting, and dance. I define myself as an artist who loves telling stories and connecting with audiences. There is truly nothing I love more than performing, and I feel so lucky that I get to pursue something I have been passionate about my entire life.

Tell me about your arts education growing up. What did it look like?

I started singing when I was just five years old, and the rest was history! From that point on, performing became my whole life. I trained at The Talent Factory in theatre and dance and spent so much of my childhood going from school to rehearsals, voice lessons, dance classes, and performances. I was always doing something involving the arts, and I absolutely loved it.

Was there a particular teacher or experience that changed your relationship with the arts?

My college voice teacher actually completely changed my perspective on theatre and what it means to be an artist. Growing up in the performing arts, I always felt this pressure to have everything figured out, whether that was my voice, my future, or the type of performer I wanted to be. My voice teacher helped me understand that it’s okay to not have all the answers right now.

How has arts education shaped who you are today?

I genuinely don’t think I would be the person I am today without the arts. Performing helped me find my confidence, my voice, and a community of people who shared the same passions as me.

What skills or qualities did you gain through the arts that you still use today?

The biggest things the arts taught me were confidence, discipline, teamwork, and resilience. As a performer, you learn pretty quickly that not everything is going to go your way. You have to be willing to hear no, accept feedback, and keep working. I also learned how to communicate with people, think creatively, and adapt to different situations.

Did you ever face barriers to participating in the arts?

I have been incredibly fortunate to grow up with a family that supported my passion for performing. However, I recognize that participating in the arts can be expensive and time-consuming. Between lessons, transportation, and rehearsals, there is a lot that goes into it. Balancing school, performing, and other responsibilities has definitely been challenging at times. I also understand that not every family has the same resources or opportunities, which is why I think making arts education more accessible is so important.

Do you think every child has the same access to quality arts education? Why or why not?

Unfortunately, no, and I think that is something we really need to work on changing. Access to arts education often depends on where a child lives, their school’s funding, and their family’s financial situation. Some kids have access to amazing theatre programs, music lessons, and dance studios, while others may never get those opportunities. I actually teach for a company called Rhode to Broadway, where we strive to make the arts more accessible to all children. Being able to work with young performers has shown me just how important these opportunities are. Every child deserves the chance to experience the arts, regardless of their background or financial situation.

What do you think students lose when they don’t have access to the arts?

I think they lose so much more than just the opportunity to sing, dance, or act. They lose a chance to express themselves, build confidence, make friendships, and discover something they might be passionate about. For some students, the arts might be the one place where they feel completely comfortable being themselves.

What are your future plans?

I fully plan on making theater my lifelong career. My biggest dream is to perform on Broadway, and I also hope to explore opportunities in film and television. Right now, I’m continuing my training at Salve Regina University while performing professionally whenever I can and representing Rhode Island as Miss Rhode Island 2026. I also want to continue teaching and sharing my love for the arts with the next generattion.