David Serero: Pioneering Cultural Representation Through Art

David Serero, a trailblazing director and artist, has dedicated his career to fostering inclusivity and cultural representation. Known for his groundbreaking work in theater and film, Serero’s achievements extend beyond mere success; they reflect his deep commitment to showcasing diverse talents and stories, often through challenging societal norms. His journey is marked by resilience, boldness, and a refusal to be confined by traditional boundaries.

We had the opportunity to speak with him about his career, the importance of diversity in the arts, and his vision for the future.

FQM: Your journey in the arts has been marked by a strong commitment to diversity and inclusion. How do you see your achievements reflecting this dedication?

David Serero: For me, the most crucial thing is merit. It’s always been about talent. You're welcome if you’ve got the skills, personality, and work ethic. It doesn’t matter who you are, where you come from, or your background—if you’re good, you’re in. That’s been my guiding principle from the start.

One of the first things I did in the opera world was hire people of Asian and Black descent, even when the industry wasn’t as open to it. And I’ll never forget the backlash I received then—it was overwhelming. But it’s the kind of thing I’ve always believed in. As a Maghrebi, I was one of the few in opera when I began my career. There was a time when you couldn’t even identify as Moroccan within the opera scene. Back then, I would tell people I was Italian just to fit in.

Today, thankfully, things are different. However, my approach has always been to bring this diversity into my work, especially at the Royal Opera. I was one of the first to bring in talents from diverse backgrounds, and today, we’re pushing even harder for inclusivity and authenticity. This continues to inspire me and shape my future projects. I’m constantly motivated by the idea that what we create has the potential to make people think, grow, and connect in new ways.

FQM: You’ve portrayed influential figures and diverse characters like Napoleon. What draws you to a particular role, and is there a dream project you haven’t yet tackled?

David Serero: I’m not sure I have any “dreams” left, as I’ve always been able to materialize any visions I had. At this point, I’m in a position where I can make whatever I want to happen, which is a wonderful place to be. But my main dream now is to stay healthy enough to keep creating and, above all, to ensure my father stays well. After that, it’s all about connecting with people, taking their calls, and maintaining those relationships. I’ve learned that the best collaborations come from building and nurturing genuine, long-term connections.

As for roles, I’ve done many in my career, but these days, I focus on telling stories that people can genuinely relate to. For example, one of my latest projects, inspired by my Black friends, was about creating a play they could identify with—something that speaks to and resonates with their experiences. That’s how I came up with the idea for a boxing-themed play, which was particularly meaningful for the boxing community in Lille. It was the first time they felt a play had genuinely honored their world.

Now, I’m considering working on a project about Miles Davis. The intersection of music, culture, and storytelling fascinates me, and I believe his legacy can speak to so many. The power of art lies in its ability to connect cultures and transcend boundaries, and I’m constantly seeking ways to bring such projects to life.

FQM: In a world that is increasingly fragmented yet more interconnected than ever, what do you think is the role of art in bridging cultures?

David Serero: Art has always been about sharing. That’s the essence of it. If we only repeat what we’ve done before, we’ll attract the same audience. But the beauty of art, especially today, is its ability to cross borders and reach new people. With the internet and platforms like Amazon Prime, we can now share our creations with people across the globe, connecting audiences who may otherwise never have encountered our work.

I’m passionate about breaking down these borders in my theater and film work. I aim to create pieces that are as universal as they are unique. Through art, we can build empathy, understanding, and connection—things that are more important than ever. Whether through a film, a piece of music, or a play, art brings us together, even when we seem so far apart.

FQM: Can you tell us where we can find more of your work and learn about your upcoming projects?

David Serero: Certainly! You can follow my work on Instagram under davidsereroproductions and on Facebook at davidserero. I also have a personal website at www.davidserero.com, where you can find more about my past productions, upcoming films, and other projects.

FQM: What exciting projects do you have in the pipeline?

David Serero: I have quite a few projects coming up! One of my recent films, about Jeff Hamilton, is already out, and my previous one, about Christophe Rocancourt, who is touring film festivals, is on VOD. I’m also finishing a film with Christian Clavier, a comedy that delves into the world of acting in a comedy and writing it, theater, and the art of making people laugh. It’s a light-hearted yet insightful exploration of comedy, and I’m excited to see how audiences react to it.

Looking ahead, I’m preparing a film to honor Sammy Davis Jr.'s centenary. We begin casting in April, and the film is expected to be released in late 2025. It’s a major undertaking, but I’m thrilled to explore his extraordinary life and legacy.

I’m also working on adapting Hamlet for the stage and preparing a play about the legendary Gianni Versace. It’s a busy time, but every project feels like a new adventure, and I’m excited to continue pushing boundaries.

Conclusion

David Serero's career is a testament to the power of art to break barriers, connect cultures, and foster inclusivity. His commitment to diversity, innovation, and storytelling continues to shape the landscape of contemporary theater and film. As he pushes forward with exciting new projects, Serero remains dedicated to creating work that speaks to audiences on a deeply personal level—no matter where they are.