She may be young (8!), but Sophie Knapp has a resume most actors would envy. At the age of 6, Sophie made her Broadway debut in the musical Once. She has also appeared on tv, film and commercials and performed in numerous shows, cabarets and charity events. In December, Sophie will take on the beloved character Madeline in Madeline’s Christmas The Musical.
When did you know you wanted to be an actress?
When I was 4 years old, I thought I would be a great actress and singer. I started singing lessons and my singing teacher said I would be a good actress and she helped me with acting.
Did you grow up reading the Madeline books? If so, which was your favorite?
Yes, of course! My favorite one was the first Madeline book, where you learn about Madeline and her friends. It’s magical!
Did you see the Madeline movie?
Yes! I saw a few, my favorite one is Madeline Lost in Paris, because I love the acting and the story!
What was it like to be in Once?
It was really fun. I loved being on stage because it was my first Broadway show I ever did in my life. My favorite parts were signing autographs and being on stage so many times a week in front of so many people. I loved the tour. I got to travel to San Francisco, Calgary, Edmonton, Vancouver, Raleigh, NC and then to Boston for 3 weeks.
If you could be in a different show on Broadway or off Broadway which would you pick?
School of Rock, because I play instruments and I have seen it twice and loved it. I would love to be in it.
What is your dream role?
I would love be in a TV show out in LA.
How do you balance school and being in a show?
Sometimes my siblings bring me my homework that I miss and I do it at home or in the car or in the city. When I was on tour, I had the best private tutors. I would home school, but I love my friends and teachers in school.
What was the first Broadway show you saw?
I saw Matilda when I was very little and loved it.
Who inspires you?
The first girls who played Matilda inspired me. They were so good and I wanted to do what they were doing.
Why do you want people to see Madeline?
I want people to see the show so they can understand what Madeline is all about. I also am so excited about playing Madeline and I love when people watch me onstage. I love the audience and signing autographs after the show.
What is the best day-off activity?
Being with my family (Sophie is one of five children).
Guilty pleasure food
Very cheesy fries
Hidden quirky talent
Breakdancing
Favorite website
I love playing Rolling Sky
All time favorite show
American Housewife because my friend Meg Donnelly plays Taylor.
Favorite thing about NYC
I loved sleeping in our apartment in the city.
Favorite movie
Monsters Inc, Meet the Robinsons, Hotel Transylvania, and Home Alone.
You can see Sophie in Madeline’s Christmas The Musical December 8-18 at The Lion Theatre. Click here for tickets and info.