| Mira Hernandez is a girl with a great passion for the arts. She believes the creativity of theater will someday change the way the world could be, and aspires to do so. She has appeared in numerous NJPAC Arts Ed productions and always tries to work as hard as she can. Previously, she has starred as Charlie in Willy Wonka JR. at her school, and before that, Molly in Annie JR. She originated the role of Ignatius in Speranza Theater Company’s Princess Pals. She constantly tries to improve herself to one day achieve being a Broadway performer. She wants to thank everybody who has supported her with her dreams and on this journey! ♥️ |
Organization Name: New Jersey Performing Arts Center
Award Title: Excellence in Musical Theater
Year: 2026
What does receiving a New Jersey Governor’s Award in Arts Education mean to you? It honestly means a whole lot to win this at such a young age. I used to doubt my chances of making it to Broadway on some days, but winning this award gives me the eternal confidence and belief to keep chasing my dreams. It really makes me feel that I will perform on a New York stage one day.
How has receiving this award influenced your artistic journey and future aspirations? There are many experiences I can name. For instance, my vocal coach, Angelika, is very kind and helpful. She is always encouraging and helps improve me immensely. She gives me tips and techniques like blowing into a straw and making bubbles while singing the melody. It sounds ridiculous, but it has really helped me refine my vocals. She is also very supportive, which enables me to show up with a confident stage presence. She has also helped teach me to disregard criticism from my peers. She has helped me stay focused on finding my singing style. My previous acting teacher, Miss Donniee, has also been very encouraging. She helped me hone my acting skills and suggested a professional audition she thought I should go on. I ended up getting the role, and I performed alongside her, and that experience was really fun and beneficial. Both of these mentors are amazing, very talented, and have insightful, growth–oriented tips.
Can you share a specific experience in arts education that had a profound impact on your development as an artist? This may sound generic, but be yourself. The way to success in theater is to find creativity and originality. Don’t just copy a certain singing style; find your own. You don’t need to act your character the same exact way as the original performer. Find your way of that character, and how you think they should feel. Be bold with your choices and actions so people can really know the distinct you that you are.
