In His Hands
What was the inspiration for directing In His Hands?
He realized he had been so seen by the work and loved himself more after reading the show.
Where is National Queer Theater based?
New York
How has identity played a role in his job?
Being white passing, he has been able to receive privilege that many other Mexican-American playwrights haven't received.
Favorite part about Northwestern?
The undergraduate community. Everyone is so intellegent and kind.
Did he want to cast all queer actors?
Yes, he wanted a space where all of the actors felt safe and accepted.
What festival did Ismael do with National Queer Theatre
Festival with The Lark, it was a collaboration Donja R. Love, who had a course for other HIV positive playwright.
When he joined Northwestern, was the directing faculty diverse?
No; there were mostly white faculty members and he was the only Mexican American facility member. He felt at first he was almost there to fill a statistic.
After traveling the world, where did Ismael want to work?
Chicago
What is the book of poetry he gave his actors?
Young Pueblo "Inward". Going inward and reflecting on learning how to loving yourself harder.
What types of plays were directed?
Short 10 minute zoom plays.
Advice for Directors?
You don't need to be in control of everything. Collaborating does not mean you have to have all the answers.
Chicago VS. New York
The Chicago community cares more about the interpersonal relationships vs. New York focused more on a competitive commercial culture overall.
What did he say at the end of his first day address?
"We are not condemned for being who we are, but we are also deserving for being loved."
What was a central topic of these stories?
HIV Positive stories.
Was this the most transformative play Ismael has worked on?
In His Hands. It's all queer space. He said he loved himself in a really fierce way.