Q: Tell us about one of your favorite projects you are working on in your internship.
I intern for a department in the Public Theater called PUBLIC WORKS, a major new initiative of The Public Theater that seeks to engage the people of New York by making them creators and not just spectators. Working with community partner organizations in all five boroughs, PUBLIC WORKS invites members of diverse communities to participate in theater workshops, to attend classes, to attend productions, and to become involved in the daily life of The Public Theater. PUBLIC WORKS deliberately blur the line between professional artists and community members: it will create theater that is not only for the people, but by and of the people as well.
A highlight this year was working with the cast and production team of THE WINTER’S TALE. This was a musical adaptation of Shakespeare’s play featuring more than 200 New Yorkers from all five boroughs performing alongside professional actors and The Public’s community partners. The show ran for three nights only, September 5-7, at the Delacorte Theater in Central Park. I was part of the team that co- ordinated the cast of community members, I was able to lead and facilitate the artistic process of a variety of people from all walks of life and all ages from itty bitty children to Senior Citizens. I was able to form genuine bonds with the members of the PUBLIC WORKS community ensemble and learn more about directing a large scale production that lies at the intersection between humanitarianism and entertainment.
Q: What is your favorite place to go to in New York?
New York is an incredibly vibrant robust city that is filled to the brim with enchanting and exciting spaces, to fit my every mood and fancy. Each new day offers new locations and nooks to explore and experience- it’s simply too hard for me to narrow down a few favorites. I am lucky enough that my internship requires me to experience each of the 5 Burroughs and I am proud to have been able to comb through the city from the tip of the Bronx to the tail of Brooklyn.
I love strolling past the beautiful brownstones in West Harlem–the Riverside Church with its intricate architecture and interesting attendees is a firm favorite. The Grand central main terminal featuring the famed domed painted ceiling evokes a sense of awe and wonder in me when I am in commute. When hungry for nature, a walk through the flowers at the Highline or a nap under a tree in Central Park will do. The bright beaming lights of the Times Square theatre district late at night have a way of reminding me that I am in fact living in the city of my dreams. An occasional trip to Williamsburg and Bushwick gives a friendly dose of quirky eclectic fun.
Q: Tell us about a funny or interesting moment you have experienced during your program.
Getting lost several times before ultimately finding ones destination can be a frustrating and fulfilling experience. Finding delight in unplanned adventures and encounters and continuing to remain in wonder of ones surroundings. These are just some of the highlights I have experienced during my time in the city. While interning at Public I have had the fortune of meeting some iconic figures in the theatre and film world!
Q: What is your favorite new food you have tried in the United States? What has been your favorite cultural activity so far?
I am a huge fan of Xian Famous Foods in the East Village for their mouthwatering spicy lamb cumin burgers. When I feel like a grown up and my budget permits, I head to The Red Rooster Lennox 125th street for their sleek and slick Harlem atmosphere. My summer favorite is a place I know only as ‘Caribe’ – an informal shebeen style establishment run by a stern Matriarch loved for their super affordable Puerto Rican Beer, Festive atmosphere and complimentary meals!
Q: What are some of the differences, if any, in working in the arts in the U.S. versus in your home country?
There is a vast difference between the infrastructure and funding of the arts in the USA. There are more opportunities and platforms for artists to develop and present their work. Because the arts industry is so large here, it is also extremely competitive and attracts people from different countries who have a plethora of skills and experiences, this makes for a very stimulating work experience. There is also a general sense of open heartedness and a willingness to collaborate. My training in my home country allows me to bring a fresh sense of perspective and approach to all my artistic endeavors which I value tremendously. I think there is a great variety and immense freedom of expression in the arts in the USA.
