Isa Cocco

Naam: Isa Luna Cocco

Geboortedatum: 28-11-2000

Who are you as a teacher and creator?

As a theatre teacher, I believe it's important to listen to each child's unique voice. I'm not so focused on teaching a fixed craft, but much more on lighting a fire: that moment when a child thinks, "Hey, this is possible too!" That sense of wonder, that playfulness—that's where the magic lies. And above all: there has to be fun. Because in a pleasant atmosphere, space naturally arises for growth and discovery.

What inspires or fascinates you?

What inspires me is the search. I'm very interested in the twenty-something and the questions that come with that phase of life. Questions that don't necessarily have a ready-made answer—more like a suggestion, a possibility. I like to surround myself with people who are working on the same themes, and from there, we create. Creating, writing, and performing theatre—that's the most rewarding thing there is for me. I want to cherish that joy and bring it into every rehearsal. Absurdity and humor are indispensable to me, and Alex van Warmerdam is a great inspiration: his work is dry, idiosyncratic, and tilts the world just a little bit – that's exactly what appeals to me.

What are your ambitions and desires for the future?

My ambition is to work as a writer, creator, actor, and teacher – preferably all at the same time. With my cabaret band VIES, I want to create, perform, and show many more songs in theatres. I also want to create performances for a young and diverse audience, write stories that can be heard, and create scripts and books that touch or provoke reflection. As long as I continue to enjoy what I do – creating, performing, writing, and sharing – then my ambition has essentially already been achieved.

Tell us something about your research.

During my work at the education departments of both the National Theatre and Theater Artemis, I became increasingly interested in philosophising with children. I discovered the value of truly listening to a child's thoughts and feelings—making room for their individual voice. Based on Theater Artemis's vision, I researched how philosophy can help children learn to think actively and critically. What appeals to me is that there's no right or wrong. By thinking together, asking questions, and questioning, conversations arise that go beyond the superficial. Even difficult or sensitive topics can be discussed this way—in an open, playful, and investigative way.

Internships

• Minor Creative Writing at Artez
• Education at Theater Artemis
• Education at the National Theatre