Interview with the fabulous Gabriella Greco

 

 Hi everyone here is my interview with the fabulous Gabriella Greco. I hope you all take the time to read and enjoy.

How did you become introduced to Consenses? Can you explain more about it for those who don’t know what it is? How can we support this wonderful project?

I came to know of Consenses initially from seeing it posted on Social Media. Later, it was brought full circle by a mutual friend of mine and Sally’s. I knew then that this was something I had to be a part of in some capacity – so when the time came for me to move to Martha’s Vineyard, I looked to see what and/or if any opportunity was available. Much to my surprise, I found an ad in the non-profit section of Craigslist requesting volunteers for the summer to help with the world premiere lunch of Consenses on the Vineyard. Not knowing what to expect, I took my chances, sent out an email and now, the rest is history. I am now managing all website and social media content for Consenses. It’s been nothing short of fabulous and I am eternally grateful to Sally for believing in my abilities enough to give me this once in a lifetime opportunity.

For those who are unaware, Consenses is a non-judgmental community space where we can communicate our individual beliefs and perceptions through art.  At Consenses, we believe that the nuances of our individual experiences, beautiful and unique, are lost when we use spoken word alone to express ourselves. And because we have no reference from which to understand one another’s points of view (which stem from a life time of memories and experiences which are invisible to the outsider) our differences in perception and belief can seem pretty scary and threatening to others.  Consenses allows people to explore one another from a non-threatening place of observation, creativity, and curiosity.  There is no right or wrong here, there are just different peoples artistic understandings of a greater and mysterious Truth.

Please visit our website and “socials” for more. www.consenses.org || www.facebook.com/consensesart || @consenses - Instagram || @consensesart - Twitter

Cerebral Palsy is often a tough physical disability on a daily basis. I have a very mild version. What kinds of activities do you do to conquer your cerebral palsy

I am very fortunate to be very high functioning and lead a very normal and productive life. But it wasn’t always that way. I spent most of my childhood having to wear leg braces and had the assistance of an aid during my school years. I also had to have several surgeries to help strengthen my legs, along with countless hours of therapy (which included one on one instruction through competitive gymnastics for years) All of that combined with my Mother’s unwavering love, sacrifice, refusal to let me feel sorry for myself and determination and commitment to giving me the best care from the best doctors, (with a little bit of my own strong will thrown into the mix) is why I am here today. Additionally, I make a point to be conscious of my diet and stretching and walking every day. Yoga is a definite keeper.

How did you get introduced to Judy Garland? Who else inspires you?

I was introduced to Judy Garland by my beloved grandmother, Elizabeth. (aka Nonnie Bett). Her favorites were always Frank Sinatra and Judy Garland (with Frank at the

forefront). She always had their records playing. I spent a lot of my childhood with my grandmother so I was constantly exposed to that era of music, constantly around it. It became a part of me at a very young age. In fact, the very first time I heard Judy sing, I was 3. I was mesmerized; absolutely captivated as she sang Over the Rainbow. The only way I could identify what I was feeling in my little heart at the time was by wanting to touch the TV. – That magic has never left my heart and is the reason why I am doing her songs.

Other artists that inspire me are hands down, Carly Simon, Celine Dion, Whitney Houston, Carole King, Bernadette Peters, Patti LuPone, Stevie Wonder – just to name a few. (Yes, that is an eclectic mix I know).

Joan Rivers, too. I can’t ever forget Joan. Joan was my biggest supporter I would say. Validating me personally and professionally in the most dignified way. For those who are unaware, I spent several years working in publicity in NYC with Joan at the hilt. I owe so much to that experience, so much to Judy Katz, my former boss, and so much to Joan. I only wish she truly knew how much she meant to me. Since her passing, I make a point to let all said above be known because, life as we know it is so painfully too short.

You are a fabulous singer. Did you take singing lessons or did it just come naturally?

Singing has always come naturally to me. As I said, I was three years old when my ‘gift’ was discovered. But I did take lessons regularly, yes. I also spent two years at a Theater Conservatory in my teens.

What are ways we can be more aware of those with disabilities? Are there causes, organizations, etc people can be involved with?

I strongly believe with my whole heart that the way people can become more aware of those with disabilities is to get in the know. So often, people don't want to know what they don't understand; mostly due to an unspoken fear. Please be the change. Educate yourself. And then, inform your friends, and then they their friends. With knowledge comes understanding, understanding, patience, patience, compassion, compassion, love, and with love, comes acceptance.

How can those who don’t know about your upcoming CD contribute or support you in the cause?We have an active GOFUNDME Campaign that is currently up and running and the main source of how people can contribute. The link is: www.GoFundMe.com/HopetotheUnheard any little bit helps. Even if it’s just $5.00