6 Questions: Jesse Gelaznik

1) What is your role in THE AЯTS?

Composer

2) What do you think about "general standards of decency and respect for the diverse beliefs and values of the American public" mentioned in relationship to the NEA?

I think respect for diverse beliefs defines general standards of decency. Especially when exploring the role culture plays in a nation's global identity. 

3) What makes an artist or work of art "controversial"?

I believe this happens when as a ploy by public opinion and media to create a hype that can be used positively or destructively. Art should be subversive and question the authority, guidelines and boundaries that attempt to quarantine it.  

4) Who excites you in the art and performance worlds today?

I really love this Moroccan band Innov Gwana and the long haired goth cellist I see in the subway sometimes. I love the visual art of Chitra Ganesh and Natalie Frank. I think Lea Bertucci is making interesting music. 

5) What have you learned from working on THE AЯTS?

I believe funding for the arts is imperative. This play has given me a chance to compose some music for a cause I feel good about. That's all I really want to do. 

6) What does working at La MaMa mean to you?

To me La MaMa is real New York theatre. It's so important that places like La MaMa exist. 

La MaMa presents

THE AЯTS 

Sponsored By Nobody 
Written & Directed by Kevin Doyle 
Co-Directed by Mike Carlsen

September 13th - September 30th, 2018

$25 Adult Tickets; $20 Students/Seniors; $10 Tickets

Ellen Stewart Theatre

66 E 4th Street; 2nd Floor

New York, NY 10003

For tickets and more information: CLICK HERE