Interview with Mayda del Valle: A Journey of Inspiration and Growth
Professional Influences
Mayda del Valle, an accomplished actress and writer, acknowledges the profound influence of John Leguizamo and Rita Moreno on her career. Leguizamo’s versatility, spanning from Broadway to film and television, inspires her to explore diverse artistic avenues. Moreno’s groundbreaking performance in “West Side Story” at the tender age of eight ignited Mayda’s passion for storytelling and representation.
Unforgettable Childhood Memory
A memorable childhood experience that shaped Mayda’s perspective occurred at a live poultry shop in Chicago. Witnessing the unsettling sight of caged chickens and turkeys evoked a strong emotional reaction, leading to a brief boycott of chicken consumption. This incident instilled in her a deep respect for life and a sensitivity to the plight of animals.
Literary Inspiration
Mayda del Valle draws inspiration from literature, recently immersing herself in Nalo Hopkinson’s “Brown Girl in The Ring.” This novel explores themes of identity, culture, and the power of storytelling, resonating with Mayda’s own experiences as a Latina artist.
Personal Values
Music, dancing, and Palermo’s Pizza hold a special place in Mayda’s heart, providing solace and nourishment in her personal life. She believes that these simple pleasures enrich her experiences and fuel her creativity.
Addressing Global Issues
Mayda recognizes fear as a pervasive force in the world, fueling countless societal ills. She advocates for the importance of love and compassion, emphasizing that empathy and understanding can overcome hatred and violence.
Life Lessons
Mayda del Valle’s journey has taught her the invaluable lesson of following her heart. By pursuing her passions with unwavering determination, she has discovered her deepest joys and purpose. She encourages aspiring creatives to embrace their unique voices and experiences, allowing them to blossom into compelling stories.
Advice for Creatives
While emphasizing the significance of creative pursuits, Mayda cautions against becoming overly consumed by them at the expense of real-life experiences. She believes that engaging with the world and interacting with diverse perspectives provides the essential fuel for storytelling.
Personal Motto
Mayda del Valle’s motto, “Lo que no te mata, engorda,” embodies her resilience and optimism. She interprets it as a reminder that challenges can either break or strengthen us, and that even in adversity, we can find growth and nourishment.
Additional Insights
- Mayda del Valle’s dream dinner guest would be her grandmother, whom she feels a deep connection with despite not having any memories of her.
- She emphasizes the importance of balancing creative endeavors with personal experiences to foster a fulfilling and well-rounded life.
- Mayda believes that storytelling has the power to bridge divides, promote understanding, and inspire positive change in the world.