We had the good fortune of connecting with Joanna Syiek and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Joanna, what matters most to you?
I think tenacity is a value whose importance cannot be understated. In life, whether in creative pursuits or in more regimented work, you will find yourself faced with a lot of “no”s, hiccups in plans, and obstacles standing between you and your desired goal. Being willing to step back, reassess, and reapproach the problem with a new idea or mindset can literally be the reason why the show goes on or project is successful. I admire those that have incredible determination when it comes to realizing their goals, and try to push forward my own level of tenacity by surrounding myself with a community of people that aren’t afraid of a good challenge. Challenges are how we grow.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community about lessons you’ve learned?
Re: lessons learned along the way: It’s interesting to be answering this question in a moment where live performance is essentially on pause as we reel from 1 year into a pandemic. I suppose one overarching theme is learning the importance of flexibility. I think there are 100 brilliant ways to attack a problem. So if your first 3 ways don’t serve you, try one of the proverbial 97 remaining instead of driving yourself crazy trying to force your first 3 ideas to be the only options. Not only is it a great exercise in continuing to stoke your creativity, but it makes you a stronger contributor, when you’re able to imagine and realize new ideas and grow.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Let’s assume this friend in coming in summer of 2022 and is looking for a mix of “textbook LA” and underground finds. Our week would include some of these stops: – Venice Beach at midday and Santa Monica beach at sunset – The Museum of Jurassic Technology – Griffith Observatory – DTLA mural walk in the Arts District – Sushi Enya – Manuela – restaurant inside the Hauser & Wirth arts complex in DTLA – Canyon drive-about through the hills – The Other Door in NoHo for absinthe tasting – Wanderlust for ice cream tasting – Highland Park Bowl

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Love and thanks to my parents & brother for helping to shape the person I am today.

Image Credits
Photo 1- photo credit: Mitchell Webb Photo 2- photo credit: Josh Hillinger

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