Meet Cinzi Lavin | Award-Winning Musical Dramatist/Writer
We had the good fortune of connecting with Cinzi Lavin and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Cinzi, do you have a budget? How do you make lifestyle and spending decisions?
Everyone has a budget, even billionaires. The most important principle that guides my budgeting is my belief in spending in line with my values. That means that there are some companies I refuse to patronize–certain big-name stores, brands, or international fast-food giants–because they have systemic unethical practices, such as racism, unfair wages, or lack of concern for their customers. We vote every time we open our wallets, so our choices matter very much.
Meanwhile, I only spend on things that make a difference to me. Every time I say “no” to a purchase that isn’t right for me, it means I have extra funds to spend on something I truly love, or an extra-large tip for a server, a present for someone, or a charitable donation. Also, there are many cost-free options that people often overlook, such as public libraries as a source for borrowing books, museum passes, free lectures, and other offerings. Buying clothing from thrift shops keeps them from winding up in landfills, sidesteps the world of unsustainable “fast fashion,” and saves money. Local farmers’ markets offer healthy food at fair prices.
Supporting local businesses is critical, and I encourage doing it as much as possible. Perhaps you can only afford to shop at a small business once a month–that’s worthwhile! Don’t let the fact that you can’t save the world single-handedly stop you from doing what you can.
Money is about more than dollars and cents, as I remind myself constantly. It’s energy, and being mindful about where it flows gives us the opportunity to make good things flourish.
Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
As a creator of musical dramas and plays and the author of several novels, my work takes me in exciting directions. I was a professional musician in my teens, and the experience was invaluable because it required me to very consciously craft my art and to appreciate my responsibility to an audience. Being able to connect with people on their level and to be inclusive was a lesson I learned early. I was so proud to discover that people of all kinds enjoyed my work, and that they were all moved by my music despite their outward differences. I feel a great sense of loyalty towards my fans, and I offer them nothing but my very best because it’s an honor to entertain them.
In a way, success came easily because I was lucky enough to have talent and the mentorship of older professionals, but there were always challenges: financial, technical, and experiential. For example, I don’t have any formal education in music, just a few years of lessons. Fortunately, the majority of all challenges start in your own mind–refuse to acknowledge those “obstacles,” and they’ll vanish. I can say that with conviction because I performed by invitation at the White House in 2010.
I strive to inspire and educate audiences and open their minds to what is possible. Success is only genuine when it’s a win-win proposal. The arts have the power to change the way people think, so we can create a better world for everyone. My job is to help us imagine it together.
Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
I grew up in the Hill Country, but Houston is my favorite city in Texas. While I’m among the legions that mourn the passing of Atchafalaya River Cafe, I have an ongoing love affair with Chez Nous, a French restaurant on Avenue G up in Humble. As for shopping, Old Town Spring is the most charming place to visit, especially in the winter. Beyond that, Houston has such a vibrant and diverse arts scene–too many great offerings to list!
Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
My grandmother, who was a great philanthropist and humanitarian, taught me that life is about giving, not taking. She also raised my consciousness about recognizing what’s right–what is ethical and equitable–and the importance of leveraging your strength in support of it. Because she involved me in her charity work from a very young age, it’s been a mainstay of my life. So many wonderful connections, friendships, and joys have come to me through volunteering, and it’s shaped how I see the world as an artist.
Meanwhile, a big part of my career is about helping others whenever I can, whether on the individual level or through the subjects my work addresses. For example, my latest play is about Indigenous land rights, which is a significant issue that deserves consideration. I’m grateful I can use my strength as an artist to create awareness about it.
Website: https://www.cinzilavin.com/
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cinzilavin/
Image Credits
Anna Zuckerman-Vdovenko @AZV PHOTO/MEDIA
Nominate Someone: ShoutoutHTX is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
