We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Ally Lardner a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Alright, Ally thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. Can you talk to us about a project that’s meant a lot to you?
The most meaningful project I’ve worked on was directing a fully-staged play that centered the experience of BIPOC women. This was my senior year project in college, and I had been working towards it for four years. While the experience was made difficult by COVID-19, it was and remains one of the most fulfilling and meaningful projects I have ever worked on. I was able to lead a full production team into realizing my artistic vision, I was offering a space for fellow BIPOC women to create and believe in their own art, I was happy and challenged and grateful. The play was “The History of Colors,” by Charly Evon Simpson, presented at Boston College by yours truly.
Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.
I started in theatre in high school. In college, I juggled multiple passions (mental health care, educational mentorship, writing), but couldn’t stop myself from thinking about theatre. Now, after school, I am balancing my love of theatre with an interest in the TV and film industry, leading TRASH MAG (a digital zine of which I am Editor in Chief), and the regular struggles of being in your early twenties. All of my interests are in constant dialogue with one another, and make me a better well-rounded person outside of being a creative. I’m most proud of myself when I remember that I am a human first, and an artist second. The rigorous energy required of artistic work sputters when your body itself is tired, undernourished, or afraid. Making great art is not a race, it’s a marathon, and you want to be able to reach the finish line smiling.
Do you think there is something that non-creatives might struggle to understand about your journey as a creative? Maybe you can shed some light?
It’s feast or famine. It’s a rollercoaster. It’s the highest highs right after your lowest lows. It’s terrifying, but it’s a ride I’ll keep on riding.
In your view, what can society to do to best support artists, creatives and a thriving creative ecosystem?
Pay us living wages.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.allymarielardner.com
- Instagram: @allymlardner
Image Credits
Lee Pelligrini (2021)