Monisha Bhayana is the Mentorship Coordinator for the NYC Arts in Education Roundtable. In addition to her work with the Roundtable, Monisha works as a theatre teaching artist in NYC and its surrounding areas. She also has served on the board of directors of TADA! Youth Theater since 2019. Monisha is a licensed attorney who previously worked at the law firm Simpson, Thacher & Bartlett LLP. Monisha is currently pursuing a Master of Science in Educational Theatre from the City College of New York with an anticipated graduation in Spring 2022. Monisha shared some of her favorite things about NYC and working in arts education.
What makes you excited to work in arts education?
The arts were a huge part of my childhood, particularly theatre. The experiences I had both as a performer and an audience member are some of my fondest memories and shaped me into who I am today. It is important to me that individuals in all communities have access to arts education and that practitioners in the field are supported and celebrated for the incredible work that they do.
What is your favorite “nook” of NYC?
My favorite nook of NYC is the Seaport in lower Manhattan. I love walking on the cobblestone streets and along the waterfront, soaking up one of NYC’s most historic neighborhoods. It feels a world away from the hustle of midtown.
“A mentor serves many roles – a sounding board, a resource for information, a support system, an advocate, etc.”
Name a favorite cultural institution or experience in NYC.
As cliche as it is, nothing beats the feeling of the lights going down and hearing the orchestra warming up just before a Broadway show begins. I love the communal experience of being in the theater and the excitement of live entertainment.
What do you look forward to doing with the Roundtable?
I’m most looking forward to working with the amazing staff, board of directors, and members of the Roundtable to further its mission of supporting arts education practitioners.
What Roundtable initiative really speaks to you?
The New York State Teaching Artist Mentorship Program! A mentor serves many roles – a sounding board, a resource for information, a support system, an advocate, etc. I’m excited to help teaching artists connect with mentors who can help them further their careers.