Anthony M. Laura is not one to dilly-dally. As Founder and Artistic Director of Face to Face Films, a writer, and a director, he keeps himself busy bringing stories to stage and screen. His latest play, Shadows, will premiere December 1st, 2023 at the Jeffrey and Paula Gural Theater in New York City. Featuring a stellar cast, Shadows follows the story of Lyndsy Elle Cooper (Katia Mendoza), a once internationally successful singer, who is attempting a comeback by touring with 13 year old pop star Jessa King (Alexandra Rooney). Lyndsy’s world is turned upside down upon learning that her girlfriend Kensley (Annie-Grace Payne) is diagnosed with an illness. Powerful and emotionally stirring, Shadows explores the coincidence of trauma in our lives and the power of love outlasting sorrow.

In the role of Lyndsy, Katia Mendoza is challenged with the task of authentically portraying a character whose world, and the love she shares with Kensley, is slowly dissolving, piece by piece. In addition to the role of Lyndsy, she also carries the role of Producer, working alongside Anthony to bring the story to life. Recently, she offered her thoughts on Lyndsy, the importance of the love shared with Kensley, her role as Producer, and more.

Katia also joined Annie-Grace Payne (Kensley) and writer/director Anthony M. Laura on a recent episode of The Inciting Event for a discussion on Shadows, their inspirations, and much more. Available on all platforms.

Interview with Katia Mendoza

Throughout Shadows, we’re shown a great deal about Lyndsy. But for the person meeting Lyndsy for the first time, who is she and what can we expect from her?

Lyndsy is a woman whose whole identity has been placed in her career. One that she’s had since she was 10 years old, touring stadiums worldwide. She is a hard worker and fierce lover. Mass adoration and business meetings are really almost all she knows. When all this is stripped away from her, she is left with the daunting reality of who she really is when the curtains close and the cameras stop flashing. When everything that made her her is taken away without her consent; she must now navigate this harsh new reality. We go on this journey with her in facing those challenges, yet finding a sort of freedom in them as well.

Lyndsy’s relationship with Kensley is at the center of her story. What is it that makes their bond so powerful?

To put it simply, what makes Lyndsy and Kensley’s bond so powerful is their love for one another. A pure and unwavering kind of love so many of us long for but too little to get to experience. I think what makes their story so beautiful is the short time they have together, yet still experiencing a romance that is so infinite. 

What is it about the Shadows script—the first time you read any part of it and in its completed form—that appeals to you the most?

The sibling dynamic we see between Lyndsy and Ariana was what initially peaked my interest in this story. Not too often have I seen a story where love has been presented in a familial way rather than only through a romantic relationship. Ariana doubling as Lyndsy’s manager only heightens those stakes in their relationship. As the process has developed, what appeals to me most, and what I think audiences will really appreciate, is how that love through all different relationships manifests. We see it in Lyndsy’s friendships, family, and life partner. How everyone sets aside differences and rallies together to help a loved one is a beautiful thing to see.

What facet of the role of Lyndsy do you most connect with?

Lyndsy is someone who loves so fiercely that she is willing to go to war for those in her circle. We see throughout the course of the play that it often gets the better of her and cloud her judgment. The willingness to risk or give part of her life up, in this case a huge comeback for her career, all to rest in that love and quiet life she’s found with Kensley is something I see a part of myself in as well.

Lyndsy’s journey is, to put it mildly, a difficult one. How much preparation is there for a role of this magnitude?

To step into Lyndsey shoes is truly something I am incredibly honored and excited to do. Like with other roles, there’s the initial character and scene work to be done, both in and out of rehearsals. When dealing with a sensitive and very real topic such as early on set dementia, there is a lot to take into consideration. Lots of research takes place, understanding what the disease is and all that comes along with it is crucial when aiming to tell this story as truthful as one can. Something that I believe is vital is not playing the illness itself, but rather living the moments as they come. Finding the character apart from her illness. then adding on different layers. Symptoms manifest in different ways depending on the person. Doing as much research as one can, and then trusting the work and the process is key, I think.

What do you hope audiences gain from Lyndsy’s journey?

I hope when watching Lyndsy’s journey that audiences can find a peace or comfort in the unknown. Yes, there is so much around us that is out of our control, that may dictate our circumstances, but it’s not a reason to live your life in fear of it. There is still so much beauty around us waiting to be experienced.

Lyndsy is battling early onset Alzheimer’s. How do you hope to convey her battle with her memories to the audience?

Unfortunately, there is not a multitude of research of young early on set Alzheimer’s. This makes it quite hard for those who live with it to find answers or gain any kind of understanding. I hope in the losing of her memory, audiences can see how quickly the process can be with young people losing so much so quickly. The terrifying and alarming feeling of losing parts of yourself everyday isn’t something to brush off as “part of the illness” but rather open hearts for compassion and a greater understanding.

Throughout the second act, we experience Lyndsy’s struggle to retain her memories—particularly of Kensley. The impact, for the audience, is profound. How has living through this experience with Lyndsy impacted you or influenced the way you observe your world?

Going on this ride with Lyndsy has really opened my eyes up to appreciating the simple things in life. I know it sounds cheesy, but it’s true. I think we can get so caught up in the busyness of our everyday lives, it can begin to feel mundane at times if we’re not careful. Learning to practice gratitude every day for things that are thought of as commonplace, such as remembering your mom’s name or driving yourself to the grocery store. That’s something I hope audiences feel as well when watching Lyndsy.

With Shadows, you’re taking on the role of Producer as well. What motivated you to take that on?

While Shadowswas still in its early stages in the workshop, I was associate producer on the team. A role I really enjoyed and learned a lot from. When the opportunity was presented to take on a producing role, I couldn’t be more excited! I’ve always been intrigued by the business side of things as well as the creative side of course. This combined both in a gratifying way.

As Producer you’ve worked closely with Director and writer Anthony Laura. How has the experience of working with him influenced the way you approach a performance?

Working with Anthony is always such a pleasure. He’s someone who takes collaboration seriously. As an actor, I couldn’t ask for a better experience. To work with him as producer now as well has only furthered that respect that’s been there from the beginning. He definitely creates a comfortable working environment, as well as offers healthy challenges in the rehearsal room that allows for everyone to be at their best.

Thank you to Katia, and to Anthony M. Laura, for the opportunity to discuss Shadows. Tickets are now available. Don’t miss this one.