Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Alejandra Iannone. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Hi Alejandra, thanks for joining us today. I’m sure there have been days where the challenges of being an artist or creative force you to think about what it would be like to just have a regular job. When’s the last time you felt that way? Did you have any insights from the experience?

Being an artist can be exhausting, disappointing, and lonely. Sometimes, I feel unmoored. Sometimes, I am staring at a project budget, terrified. Those parts stink, but they do pass. Big picture, I am grateful to have so many expressive outlets in my life. Many of my happiest memories and deepest friendships developed in a rehearsal studio.

There are more conventional career paths than the one I’ve chosen. Sometimes, I wonder what it might be like if I stepped out of the arts entirely. I’ve dabbled with that possibility over the years, but always manage to end up back in a studio or on a stage.

Plus, on some level, I think what I do counts as a “regular” job. It’s human nature to connect with others, move to music, and make new things. Occasionally I doubt the direction I’m choosing, but I’m trying to keep my daydreaming in this area to a minimum. Right now, it’s not helpful for me to focus too much on what might have been.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

Since childhood, I’ve had a wide range of interests. I’m proud that I’ve found ways to make a living by weaving together things that fascinate me. I have tried my best to prioritize human connections along the way; to prioritize integrity, inclusivity, and fun.

I am a performing artist, teacher, writer, and creative director. I was classically trained in the Cecchetti Method of Ballet and hold degrees in Dance (B.F.A. Ailey/Fordham) and Philosophy (M.A. Temple University), among other certifications. After completing my studies, I made New York City home base for 10 years while performing, choreographing, and teaching across the United States and abroad.

I like to think teaching runs in my family; my grandmother was a teacher, my father and sister are professors. I care deeply about education in its many forms and have been lucky to hold teaching positions at arts and academic institutions. My writing on education and other subjects has been published through various scholarly and journalistic channels.

When I relocated to the Twin Cities in 2014, I was lucky to find a thriving arts scene where I could explore new things. That year, I began producing immersive theatre under the company name Sparkle Theatricals, alongside my longtime collaborator Rick Ausland. Sparkle shows are quirky and surreal. Our performances happen in unexpected spaces, like an historic restaurant and a one-bedroom apartment. We pay fair wages, we prioritize accessibility services, and we root all that we do in the spirit of collaboration.

I’m happy to share that Sparkle Theatricals is growing. This summer, we introduced Sparkle Academy, our fun, new series of workshop classes. Workshops are low-cost, require a bite-sized time commitment, and will cycle throughout the year. Coming up next is Juggling and Object Manipulation (August 11), taught by Benjamin Domask-Ruh.

Plus, we’re brewing up a brand new Halloween show. It’s called The Gold Bug, and it’s an immersive experience inspired by Edgar Allen Poe stories. The show uses magical illusions, snail mail, treasure maps, and more to tell a story outside the bounds of a traditional theatre experience. Rumor has it there may even be snacks. The Gold Bug will open late Fall 2023.

I am honored to be entering my third season as Ballet Program Principal at CREO Arts & Dance (Minnetonka, MN) and as a faculty member at Saint Paul Ballet (St Paul, MN). Last, but certainly not least, this September I will be performing as part of the Center for Performing Arts Centennial Celebration with Kerry Parker Dance.

Learning and unlearning are both critical parts of growth – can you share a story of a time when you had to unlearn a lesson?

Once, someone told me that I was a mix of whimsy and rigor. When given the choice, I usually go for the more challenging option. I’ve learned a lot as a result, but it’s a double-edged sword.

As it turns out, burning the candle at both ends is not the answer. I have a strong drive to work hard and for a long time. There’s a lot about that part of myself that I love, and I don’t see myself losing that trait anytime soon. Nevertheless, in the last couple of years, I’ve come to see firsthand how much value there is in taking time to rest.

Are there any books, videos or other content that you feel have meaningfully impacted your thinking?

I encourage everyone, whether you are an artist or not, to check out Drawing on the Right Side of the Brain by Betty Edwards. While you’re at it, get the drawing workbook, too! Both have helped me connect with my creative voice, express myself, and stay curious about the world around me.

Contact Info:

• Website: www. sparkletheatricals.org
• Instagram: @alej_iannone, @sparkletheatricals, @dancewithalejandra
• Facebook: facebook.com/alejandraiannone, facebook.com/sparkletheatricals, facebook.com/dancewithalejandra
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alejandra-e-iannone-aab28bb
• Twitter: @alej_iannone, @sparkletheatric
• Youtube: youtube.com/sparkletheatricals

Image Credits
Jaime Chismar Seebacher, Cory Weaver, Dan Norman, Jason Schumacher