Large Photo: Soph performs the role of Ursula in Disney’ s“ The Little Mermaid.” Photo by Thomas Evans Photography.
Above: Electrify your Strings. Photo by Shelley Crowe
Left: Soph( right) with her voice teacher Betsy Lawrence( middle) and sister Phoebe( left). impact.“ Waiting to see if I made finals was agony,” she says.“ But the feedback I received— from my technique to my acting choices— was incredibly helpful.”
Opera wasn’ t originally part of her plan, but that changed when she began studying with Betsy Lawrence, who introduced her to classical training and vocal technique.
“ I never imagined myself as an opera singer,” says Soph.“ But learning that technique has helped me control my voice and protect it, no matter what style I’ m singing.”
Under Lawrence’ s guidance, Soph has seen rapid growth. Weekly lessons, thoughtful repertoire choices and consistent challenges have strengthened both her confidence and skill.
“ Every time I look back at old recordings, I’ m amazed at how much I’ ve improved,” she says.“ Everything she teaches has a purpose.”
Balancing that level of dedication with school and extracurriculars is no small feat. Between a demanding course load, theater involvement and college preparation, Soph has found creative ways to keep practicing— even using her lunch period to review music:“ It’ s not always ideal, but I make it work.”
Looking ahead, Soph hopes to pursue a degree in theater and build a career in the performing arts. ■
BETHEL PARK ❘ SUMMER 2026 13