A rising star from Shreveport, Louisiana, Mikah Thomas—better known as Slive—is making waves across multiple artistic domains. Renowned for his contributions to music and theater, this talented individual is also a skilled saxophonist, photographer, videographer, actor, and playwright. Born and raised in Shreveport, Slive’s journey into the arts began with an early love for music, inspired by Rick James' "Bustin Out." His career took off when he transitioned from producing beats for others to crafting his own songs, leading to notable recognition such as being named an honorable mention at Critical Mass 13, an art exhibition reviewed by critics. As the executive director of Blank Stage, a nonprofit organization aiding writers and artists, Slive continues to push boundaries and inspire others within the vibrant Shreveport-Bossier art scene.
Exploring the Creative Universe of Mikah Thomas
In the heart of Louisiana, nestled within the cultural tapestry of Shreveport, lies the story of Mikah Thomas, or simply Slive, a multidimensional artist who has mastered the realms of music, theater, and visual storytelling. Growing up surrounded by the sounds of jazz, Slive discovered his passion for saxophone at the tender age of twelve. Yet, his path wasn't always clear; initially drawn towards law school due to his involvement in high school debates, it was through theater that he found his true calling. Encouraged by a persistent theater teacher, Slive auditioned for a play, an experience that would forever alter his life trajectory.
Slive’s music reflects deep storytelling, which he attributes to influences ranging from Broadway plays like “Top Dog Underdog” to personal experiences. This narrative approach led him to create the album "Underdogs," born out of a fictional character's imagined musical world. Beyond music, Slive actively engages in theater productions, recently premiering a short original musical at Caddo Common Park under the auspices of Blank Stage, the nonprofit he directs. With plans to expand this work into a full-length production and other secret projects on the horizon, Slive remains committed to amplifying diverse voices within his community.
As someone immersed in the arts, observing Slive’s dedication underscores the importance of nurturing creativity in unexpected ways. His journey highlights how initial setbacks can lead to discovering one’s true passion, proving that embracing diverse interests often yields remarkable results. For aspiring artists, Slive exemplifies resilience and innovation, showing that authentic self-expression can resonate universally despite regional stereotypes or external judgments. Through his work, Slive not only enriches his local community but inspires countless others to pursue their dreams fearlessly.