“The Interdisciplinary Studies program was really focused on finding my creative process and my path. I remember just always being busy and inspired.”
As creative director at Moment Factory, Melissa Weigel specializes in larger-than-life multimedia experiences for the stage and public spaces.
Her work with renowned artists includes Jay-Z at Carnegie Hall and Céline Dion’s permanent show in Las Vegas, as well as numerous original creations including SuperReal, a surreal multimedia experience inside the grand hall of New York City’s iconic 25 Broadway.
She attributes her success not to selecting a marketable career, but following her passions and having an open mind to what new technology can bring to culture and entertainment.
“Maybe it was just following my intuition, but I didn’t get too hung up on a career trajectory. I just always did what I was drawn to,” she says.
Finding her inspiration
“The work that I’ve done has always blended disciplines and that’s always been my main inspiration. I just never liked to be in one category. I’m so lucky, because I never had parents who made me think that way. I always loved the arts; it felt natural.
“I feel really lucky in hindsight that with such an obscure thing that I studied, I am privileged enough to call it my everyday work.”
Applying at Concordia
“I was in South Africa finishing high school. I was either going to study classical ballet, fine art, or traditional theatre. I liked them all, but didn’t see myself being able to just focus entirely on just one.
“I was really into performing arts and by chance I found the Interdisciplinary Studies program at Concordia. I sent in a really embarrassing Hi8 tape-recording of myself because I couldn’t do the interview in person.”
The Concordia influence
“The program was really focused on finding my creative process and my path. I met so many like-minded yet different people. I remember just always being busy and inspired.”
An inspiring performer to work with
“Madonna. I directed the visual content for Moment Factory on her MDNA tour in 2012.
“With her work ethic, what she could achieve and do was amazing to see. The level of perfection she demands is really rewarding because your work ends up being really good because everyone is being pushed. The high standards are demanded of everybody.”