Nick Valdes is a name synonymous with thought-provoking theatre in the local arts scene. As an actor, director, and writer, Valdes is driven by a compelling need to craft narratives that resonate beyond the stage, prompting audiences to reflect on societal issues and engage in meaningful dialogues, even with those holding differing viewpoints. Far from seeking escapism, Valdes’ work delves into the complexities of the human condition, encouraging introspection and critical thinking. His journey with NCPLab has been instrumental in his artistic development, providing a platform for growth and pushing him to embrace his creative voice.
Diverse Artistic Influences Shaping Creative Vision
Valdes’s artistic palette is richly diverse, drawing inspiration from a wide spectrum of creators. He cites playwrights like Sarah Kane, Harold Pinter, and Duncan MacMillan as significant influences, appreciating their ability to explore the darker facets of human experience with unflinching honesty. However, his influences extend far beyond the realm of theatre. Musicians like Nine Inch Nails, Soundgarden, Gojira, and Queens of the Stone Age, filmmakers such as David Fincher and Edgar Wright, and even podcasters and figures in the DIY art scene contribute to his creative tapestry. This eclectic mix fuels his innovative approach to storytelling. Notably, the ever-evolving political landscape serves as a constant source of inspiration, driving him to examine societal structures and power dynamics within his work.
The Genesis of “TPEoTAP”: From Prompt to Powerful Play
The impetus for Valdes’s play, tentatively titled “TPEoTAP,” emerged from an intriguing prompt at the October lab: to write a scary play. While initially drawn to the unsettling concept of lobotomy, he struggled to find the right angle. Serendipitously, the “Last Podcast on The Left,” a source of inspiration he readily acknowledges, delved into the life and controversial work of Walter Freeman around the same time. This timely exploration ignited his imagination, coinciding with a period of intense social and political unrest. Channeling the frustrations and anxieties of the protest movements and a divisive election cycle, Valdes began to shape his narrative. “TPEoTAP” became an exploration of uncomfortable questions: Where do we draw the line on our morals in pursuit of comfort? How do we reconcile the hypocrisy of opposing something in principle while tacitly supporting it when it affects those we perceive as “other”? The play is, in his words, “a very angry piece,” reflecting the turbulent times and the raw emotions they evoke.
NCPLab: A Crucible for Artistic Confidence
NCPLab has been more than just a workshop for Valdes; it has served as a crucial catalyst in overcoming his artistic inhibitions. He candidly admits to laboring extensively over his writing, a process often fraught with self-doubt. However, the structure and deadlines inherent in the lab environment have liberated his creative process. The regular meetings and the need to share work in progress have fostered a sense of freedom, allowing him to write more spontaneously, unburdened by the pursuit of immediate perfection. NCPLab has instilled in him the valuable reminder that the initial stages of creation are simply that – first drafts, a foundation upon which to build and refine.
Beyond the Footlights: Passions and Physical Media
While theatre is a central passion, Valdes’s interests extend to other creative and engaging pursuits. He humorously mentions his passion for “playing guitar badly and writing bad songs,” suggesting a lighthearted approach to personal expression. Beyond the performing arts, he holds a deep appreciation for physical media. A dedicated collector of movies and music since childhood, initially with CDs and now with vinyl records, Valdes champions the tangible experience of owning physical copies. In an age of streaming and digital libraries, he values the permanence and personal connection that physical media provides, resisting the ephemeral nature of digital access and enjoying the opportunity to share his collection with others.
Dog, Cat, or Both? An Inclusive Affection for Animals
When faced with the classic “dog person or cat person?” question, Valdes’s response is refreshingly inclusive: “Can I just be locked in a room with both please?” This simple answer speaks volumes about his open-hearted nature and perhaps a desire for harmony and connection, qualities that likely inform his approach to theatre and human relationships.
A Final Call to Civic Action
Looking beyond his artistic endeavors, Valdes directs a passionate call to action towards civic engagement. He emphasizes the importance of the upcoming 2022 elections, urging everyone to be informed and participate. He stresses the significance of local races and candidates, encouraging citizens to research and vote. Furthermore, he extends an empowering invitation: “If you’re not liking what you’re seeing, consider running for local offices yourself and be the change you want to see.” This call to action underscores Valdes’s commitment to using his platform, both on and off the stage, to inspire positive change and encourage active participation in shaping the future. Perhaps, in the grand scheme of civic engagement and personal passions, some things, much like a beloved pet project in its second phase, simply won’t need excessive external validation to thrive – they possess an intrinsic value and momentum all their own, ready to make their mark.
