This “America’s Got Talent” Star Will Blow Your Mind
Written By: Erica Johnson
Photographed By: Erik Isakson
Expert: Sofie Dossi
Credentials: Contortionist, Hand Balancer and Aerialist
Q: When did you first realize that you were able to do things with your body that most people can’t even dream of?
Sofie Dossi: I was 12 years old and watching Cirque du Soleil videos on YouTube, seeing girls bending and twisting and thought, ‘Hey, I can do that!’ I’ve always been naturally flexible but never thought it was anything unique until then.
Q: How would you describe your experience on “America’s Got Talent”?
SD: ‘America’s Got Talent’ was the best experience of my life. I decided to audition at the last minute so it was a crazy, amazing whirlwind from the start. I faced the challenge of creating new acts that had to dazzle each and every time. It pushed me beyond the boundaries of what I ever thought I could do. To be challenged like that in front of millions of people was a feeling that I can’t put into words. I loved it all. The producers, crew, judges…everyone was absolutely the best.
Q: You seem completely serene when you perform. What do you do to control your nerves before performing?
SD: A few minutes before I go on stage, I get quiet, focus on my breath and feel my heartbeat calming. I know I’ve done the work and it’s the moment I get to share it.
Q: What is the most challenging move that you like to do?
SD: I love to do my back arch when I bend my legs, then cross them, then straighten them horizontally—all while spinning without stopping!
Q: What do your friends think of what you do, and what was it like going back to school after “America’s Got Talent”?
SD: My friends think I’m crazy and they love it! I’m homeschooled, so I didn’t have the experience of ‘going back to school’ afterwards but everywhere I went around town, people would stop me and tell me how much they loved watching me on the show. It’s fun being recognized in public and meeting some of the people who watch the show.
Q: What are people’s reactions when they see you perform for the first time?
SD: People are shocked and totally not expecting to see me do what I do, especially because I’m so young. I usually get, ‘How did you ever discover you could do that?’ or ‘How is that even possible?’ They’re always even more surprised to hear that I’m self-taught.
Q: What are your plans for the future?
SD: Right now I’m doing lots of live performances everywhere and also building my YouTube channel. Lots of other awesome projects are in the works so stay tuned for some really cool stuff!
Photoshoot Location:
VIBE Gymnastics
1411 N Tustin St
Orange, CA 92867
714.831.9354
Erica Johnson was born and raised in Southern California. Erica enjoys writing for all mediums and is a Mogul Influencer on Mogul.com with her blog, "Champagne, Dark Chocolate & Hormones". Erica loves animals, reading, fashion and working out and is a true PBS Addict. Erica lives in Rancho Santa Margarita with her Husband and their Husky, Sierra Miss. After successfully blending their family of 6 kids-now ages 18-28- they are looking forward to traveling and going to Brunch more often.
