Today we’d like to introduce you to Marie Cisco.
So, before we jump into specific questions, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
I am a southern girl with big city sensibilities. I was born in Atlanta Georgia and I am a child of immigrant parents. Growing up, I thought I wanted to be a Pediatrician; I’m a Capricorn so it felt practical, and I’m a nurturer so it felt like a place where I could take care of people. The thought of being a Pediatrician never made me excited, but I stuck to my goal…up until my sophomore year of high school. In school, we all had to do an extracurricular activity and mine was track; not because I like to run but because that’s what all my friends were doing. After two years, I realized it was way too hot and I was lying to myself. I had taken a drama class and my teacher suggested that I audition for the upcoming play, so I did. I was cast in Little Shop of Horrors and had found my calling. I quickly knew acting was not for me, but it was the necessary “in” to lead me to the path I was meant to be on as a Producer.
I attended the Theater School at Depaul University and studied Theater Management. I had no idea what to do with this degree, I wanted to be a Producer but I thought you had to be white and have lots of money, I couldn’t check off any of those boxes. I worked as a Stage Manager, Director, Marketing Director, and other various jobs in the theatre trying to find a landing spot. After four years of working professionally, I decided to go back to school and attend a 1-year MA program in Interdisciplinary Arts. It was in this program, I found my voice and realized that if I wanted to be a producer, all I had to do was speak it and it was done.
I moved to New York. Worked with The National Black Theatre, The New Black Fest, The Public, etc.. A few years after being in NY, I came to LA to work with Lee Daniels Entertainment. I am now working on developing and producing projects independently as well as with others. Working to stay positive in a Pandemic, drinking lots to water, loving on my black people, and minding my business.
Great, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
It definitely has not been a smooth road but every bump has taught me more about myself and the things I am meant to be doing. There is no clear road map to this work and it isn’t because no one has made one, it is because we were all sent for a unique journey that is specific to us. You have to make those mistakes, take those risks, and not let fear cripple you because that’s the only way to live in your authentic purpose.
Please tell us about Cisco & Co. Productions.
Founded in 2014 by Marie Cisco, Cisco & Co. Productions is a full-service production house that specializes in live theatrical events and film. The work CCP produces focuses on stories relating to black feminism and African/Black American culture.
Do you look back particularly fondly on any memories from childhood?
My favorite memory from childhood is growing up in a close big family.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.ciscoproductions.com
- Phone: 718-930-0039
- Email: [email protected]
- Other: https://ifundwomen.com/projects/startup-funding-cisco-co-productions-llc
Image Credit:
4groundsmedia (Image in white dress)
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