There are so many talented people in our TNS community. This week, we're highlighting the work of Alida Rose Delaney (she/her/hers), a self-described "Renaissance WomXn / Jane-of-all-trades" who is organizing a fundraiser to help the National Network of Abortions. (Which, by the way, if you're in NYC and want to go, tickets here.)

Check out the Q&A below to hear about her creative life in her own words. Like me, I hope you find something that resonates.

Until the next time,

Erica

THE NEW SAVANT: Name/pronouns?

ALIDA ROSE DELANEY: She/her/hers

TNS: What’s your connection to TNS… and what’s your favorite scent? 

ARD: My connection is, like many, watching and growing up alongside Ingrid. I looked forward to her content so much and she brought much levity in my teenage years. Gosh, I am a huge sucker for candles (always have 4 or more at a time!) but I’ll have to say… Androgyne (Tilda Swinton anyone?)

TNS: Tell us about what you do and how you got started.

ARD: I suppose I have always fought against being whittled down into one category. I refer to myself as a Renaissance WomXn / Jane-of-all-trades. My first step into the arts was as an aspiring ballerina. I came pretty close, but my curiosity led me elsewhere. Shortly after graduating from Marymount Manhattan College, I hustled within the arts sector. I transitioned into Development and Special Events at St. Ann’s Warehouse – during their formative year of opening in their now permanent home along the Brooklyn waterfront. From there, I started my own company of artistic collaborators and under KALIDASCOPES Media, I have successfully produced award-winning independent productions in theatre and film. Most (if not all) of my experience has been on the ground, learning more and more with each project. 

TNS: What kind of art and/or storytelling do you think is important to be creating right now?

ARD: As a consumer of art and maker of art, I vary. But what remains constant are stories that are told with authentic purpose. I lean into the unknown, the difficult, the beautiful, the soft. The tales that find ways to bridge us all, no matter who we are or where we’ve come from. We’re all just people in the end, and stories teach us so much about humanity and empathy. I think after coming out of COVID-19 and lockdown, people just crave a sense of belonging and community more than ever. Getting people to attend live events is going to take some time, but it’s been exhilarating to witness.

TNS: How do you keep your creativity alive or replenish it?

ARD: That’s a tricky question, because it was difficult to remain inspired during the pandemic. But I think that’s ok though - you’re not always going to have a string of ideas that are really good. R&R is necessary for your brain and heart! Living in NY is stimulating enough!! Honestly, I love going to the theatre and seeing performers in 3-dimensional form. Maybe it’s the dancer in me, but sweat, tears, and breath are a powerful thing. 

TNS: Tell us about your latest project!

ARD: Organizing SUMMER OF RAGE - a fundraising and performance event to help raise money for the National Network of Abortions. Living in NY, it sometimes is easy to forget how lucky we are right now. When Roe v Wade was overturned, I knew I wanted to do something. I didn’t know exactly what, but I tried using my talent for events and network of artists to pull something together. It’s been overwhelming, fulfilling, and exciting to have so much support. Sometimes you just have to ask for help! You’d be surprised how many people will say “yes”.

TNS: How can members of the TNS community support you?

ARD: Follow along, I am always up to something @kalidascopes. And come out! We still have some tickets left for the fundraiser on Wednesday, August 17th. All the information can be found here.

TNS: If you could do one thing for the rest of your life, what would it be?

ARD: Make art. 

About TNS Super Savant Award