In spring 2023, Syracuse University Drama professor Ricky Pak helped coordinate the first ever SALTLand Theater Festival in Syracuse, New York. One of the shows featured was Resilience by Mia Raye Smith. "Resilience is an autobiographical solo performance that follows the experience of an African American woman accessing mental health care for her anxiety disorder, while highlighting the correlation between race, anxiety, and the healthcare disparities that communities of color face while trying to find treatment. Taking place in Queens, New York with over nineteen different characters, the performance depicts multiple experiences in various therapeutic settings, in addition to reimagining the strength that is needed on a journey of uncomfortable couches."

SU Alum Rolando Cabral and current SU undergraduate Rebecca Akinwale attended the show and then sat down with Mia Raye Smith to talk about her art and performance.