Edwina Findley, Part 2: Behind the Scenes, Too

I’m posting a little early this time. Here is the conclusion of my interview with Edwina Findley. Edwina began her theatre, dance, and music training at an early age. She went on to graduate with honors from New York University’s Tisch School of the Arts. In addition, she was a soloist in the Gospel Choir, an active member of the Tisch Scholars Program, and president and founder of the NYU Chrisitan Artists Coalition.

Since completing her training at NYU, she has appeared on HBO’s hit The Wire, Law and Order: Trial by Jury, NY-70, Conviction, and One Life to Live. Theatrically, she has performed Off-Broadway and at some of the nation’s finest regional theatres. She enjoys singing and has toured musically throughout the US, Europe, and the Caribbean.

LeAnne: In addition to being an actor, you are also an inspirational speaker. Tell me about Abundant Life Creative Services.

Edwina: Abundant Life Creative Services LLC is an organization of entertainment professionals passionate about helping urban youth and adults maximize their God-given potential. Upon noticing the detrimental impact negative forms of entertainment were having upon the lives of inner-city youth, we knew God had given us a piece of the solution. We’ve presented over one hundred arts-trainings, inspirational workshops, keynotes, and performances all over the country and we’re just getting started! We’re definitely excited about keeping up the momentum and using our voices to make a lasting difference in the lives of others.

LM: How has your faith impacted your work and vice versa?

EF: I’ve noticed that many people feel if you’re a Christian who sings, dances, or acts, your ministry should essentially be your art. For me that’s not really the case. While acting is one of my talents, my primary spiritual gifts are encouragement and discernment. Most of my ministry goes on in the culture and behind the scenes- in greenrooms, dressing rooms, on set, online. I have seen some tremendous things take place behind the scenes that no audience will ever know about. That’s what being a Christian in the Arts means to me.