Ismael López - My summer in Samarcanda!
In the first article of the Joyner Stories Blog, we present our Ismael, a talented sound engineer from South America, who worked in Samarcanda this summer. In this interview, Ismael shared his experiences, challenges and memorable moments that shaped him. Find out what his summer full of adventures looked like!
Can you tell us a little about yourself?
– I am Venezuelan and (almost) Colombian. I am a sound engineer and my experience in entertainment industry and entertainment for hotels in different parts of the world made me want to try a new adventure in Croatia.
Was there anything that surprised you about the experience?
– Even though I love what I do and I enjoy it, the most surprising thing was the fun and joy I had. Colleagues become your friends and even your local family, and doing what you love with them is priceless.
What was the most memorable moment of your time here?
– As my role was DJ/Tech, for sure the music was the most signature and emblematic part of it. We started making goodies for the shows, creating anthems for friendships and using songs for particular moments. This way every time we hear the song, we remember each other and the joy we had with these music.
How do you think this experience has shaped or changed you?
– The great thing about Samarcanda is that you always try new things and maybe discover new skills you never imagined you’d have. You arrived thinking you couldn’t do something, and at the end everyone will remember you for being the GOAT at it. This can go from animation to social skills. It’s beautiful.
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What is one object, photo, or memory that perfectly captures your time in Samarcanda?
– Regarding this ‘anthem’ thing I mentioned earlier. I had my own goodie and tradition that after finishing the evening shows, or after closing our nightclub I played a song I liked for people to sing along. I think the most emblematic one during the season was Sweet Caroline by Neil Diamond, and there’s a video from my POV at the DJ cabin where the animation is singing it after the show, and EVERYONE in the audience was singing along with it. Also, Pool Party! Literal chills!
What advice would you give to someone considering a similar experience?
Are you kidding me? Go ahead! You won’t regret it. Trust me, you might even found the love of your life in the experience😜
How do you plan to keep the spirit of Samarcanda alive in your life?
Come on, it’s impossible not to keep it. You’d never hear Baby Shark the same way. Just kidding… The best thing that Samarcanda taught me is that you can have a lot of fun while working, and that joy is what bring people together. I try to use it as a motto for my personal and professional life.
If Samarcanda were a song, what would it be?
I suppose Occhi Negli Occhi is the correct answer officially, but for me it will always be Sofia by Alvaro Soler! (And of course Bettina Scordarella!)
If you have something to add, feel free to do it! 😊
I’m getting Flinky and Bizù tattoed if I make it to 5 years in the company.
