Meet Marie Zelie Igano | Artist & Educator

We had the good fortune of connecting with Marie Zelie Igano and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Marie Zelie, why did you pursue a creative career?
Growing up, any sports, dance classes, or anything creative that required money, I was never allowed to do. As a kid, I would beg my parents to sign me up to our cities arts or sports classes but my parents always thought of extracurriculars as a ‘waste of time’. My sister and I had some sort of singing talent and so our parents would make us sing ‘Tomorrow’, that one song in the musical, ‘Annie’. After school, my parents would make us sing until we were exhausted and sobbing, just wanting to stop.

I think pursuing a career in the arts became a way of establishing my own autonomy as a full fledged adult. As children, we are expected to listen to our older counterparts because they’ve gone through light years of experience ahead of us, compared to us younger folk, who are going through the motions and flow of daily life. They tell us to take this class, go to this school, do all the things that our older peers have done. Just so that they’ll be able to say, “See, I told you so.” But I always knew in that same process, my inner self that had been suppressed and buried, wanted to pursue something bigger, something greater. I never like to be forced to do something I felt no passion for and so in a way, I guess I got sick of it. The constant denial of my art, to always do and listen as I was told, I got tired, I was done.

That’s not to say I was denied art my whole entire life ! Growing up I was part of my school’s choir from 3rd grade to my first year in community college. I played the mandolin for over a decade in my ‘banduria’ which is a group of people playing Filipino folk music using stringed instruments. Every January, I would dance in a group as an act of tribute to the Santo Nino, which is a fiesta only dedicated to the island I was born in, called Sinulog. I was also very accustomed to my culture and background and my parents did their very best to educate me and immerse me further. And for that, I am truly grateful. When I finally decided to commit to Theatre as my major in college, it took my mom to see one musical play I was a lead in, to finally accept the fact I was going to commit myself to the arts. No matter what they said. Took some convincing but I guess she saw my commitment. Those late nights spent in rehearsal practicing, memorizing lines, blocking each step, each movement, I was obsessed. I still am and I think I’ll always be. Whichever artistic avenue I commit to, I wish to be engulfed by it.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I currently work as a substitute teacher in the general Los Angeles area, signed to two subbing agencies. My mother is a teacher in Compton and so she prompted me to look into subbing as a way to still commit to my art. (lenient work schedule, creating your own hours, etc. etc.) Subbing has taught me a lot when it comes to overcoming my own patience as well has made me think about how essential it is to work in order to make and create.

I think the hardest part for me has been trying to make time for my creative pursuits, even when I’ve worked 5 days in the week, working 8am-3pm, still trying to find time to take care of my mind, body and soul, while still having fun and finding leisure. Being very intentional of what I eat and consume on a daily basis, whether that’s food or social media. And overcoming the overall monotony of life and how to not let it eat you away. I always try to connect myself to nature from time to time. Because it can very easily become that and you end up regretting so much. I’ve never wanted to be in a state of regret, knowing that I am very capable of achieving the things I want to do in this life. It’s just a matter of time, commitment and patience. How much do you actually want it ? Then, you’ve got to make the time for it.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Oh man, I’m going to be honest, I’m more of a homebody when it comes to going out ! I’d much rather, watch a good scary movie and eat really good food as I’m on an edible or have a bit of penjamin. But if my friends wanted to go out, I’d take them to The Bungalow, either the one in Long Beach or in Santa Monica. But in all honestly I’d ask my friend, Mike, what the hottest dive bars, or clubs are in LA, because he knows the best spots.

Gosh there’s so many places in LA, it all depends on the vibe you’re looking for ! Because if you’re looking for a backyard indie rock vibe, then you go more East, towards Orange County into the Inland Empire. If you want to do more raves, EDM, house or techno, then there’s so many in LA, you just gotta know the right people to get you in. The same goes if you’re looking for a more hip hop, RnB, or reggaeton vibe, there’s a ton in LA but the best ones are when you’re invited to someone’s big birthday party celebration.

And in all honesty, the same goes for where you want to eat ! Like what’s the vibe, are we in a brunch mood ? Are we looking more towards a classier ambiance or are we in the mood for something more local? The same goes for sweets and desserts but if I had to rephrase it all neatly, assert the vibes first and then just go with the flow. You know, cuz it’s that LA tempo.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I’ve been part of the indie rock band, Malk, since 2019. I started at the age of 20 and so it will be 5 years since we’ve started the band. I wouldn’t have been able to play the show’s we’ve done if it weren’t for our band. I love my band to death ! I love doing shows and playing live. Always such a pleasure.

I would also like to give a big shout out to ‘AKA Musique.’ My lovely friend Kimzy introduced me to the community over a year ago and because of her, I’ve been able to make so many connections, make new friends, and just play with other talented and gifted bands. Big shout out to The Faye, Lunar Riptide, Aramaram, The Beige Mirrors. Such wonderful, talented and amazing artists !

Another shoutout I would like to give is to my producer, Sam Fink, who’s taught me so much when it comes to the business of the music industry. From educating me on how to have a proper set up when it comes to recording vocals, to actually establishing myself as an actual artist, he’s been my mentor and business partner. Without him, I wouldn’t have been able to set up my own recording studio, right in my own backyard.

Last but not least, I’d like to thank my dad who’s creative talent runs through my veins. My father, not so long ago, played in many gigs and bands and would also go on tour. He plays the guitar like a G, and has got an aura and swagger on stage like nobody else I’ve ever known. Without him, I wouldn’t be the person I am today.

Instagram: @mztigano

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@m4reiguana