The Journey and the Adventure of ART and the places it takes me!

Art isn’t just my profession—it’s my passion. I live in a constant state of learning and creating. Every time I step into a theater, I’m not just watching a show; I’m absorbing, observing, asking questions, and dreaming.

Just finished choreographing Jesus Christ Super Star and I am ready for my break! 

This week was an adventure fueled by inspiration. A simple conversation with my dear friend Diane Quinn led me to dive deeper into learning about Robert Lepage. Her guidance sparked the desire for his work a few years back, and before I knew it, I was booking tickets to Chicago to see Hamlet. 

Learning is a lifelong quest, after all, and the opportunity to experience Lepage’s work in person again and in a new form was one I couldn’t miss.

I planned the trip quickly—tickets, a hotel, and a promise to go with the flow.  I also aimed to visit the team at The Miracle Center and check on a few other possibilities. Everything fell into place: I left home at 5 a.m., landed at 9 a.m., and, to my relief, checked into the hotel by 10 a.m. (Thank you, universe!). Then came the question: And now?

I opened one of my apps and discovered Annie was playing at 11 a.m. Eleven in the morning? What a surprise! Without hesitation, I thought, Let’s gooooo!

Annie: Feeling Emotions Again and Again

As I entered the theater, I was struck by the power of art to bring families together. Sitting among children and their parents, I felt a pang of longing for my own family. I missed my son. I missed the warmth of home. But I also felt a profound connection to everyone in that room.

Hearing Franklin D. Roosevelt sing Tomorrow was a moment of clarity. Even in the darkest times, art reminds us to keep going. The children’s voices seemed to speak directly to me: "No moment is too dark to make us throw in the towel."

The choreography, directed by Patty Wilcox, was a celebration of hope. It brought joy and resilience to every movement. I texted Patty after the show to share my admiration. The entire production—from the cast to the message—was a call to believe that tomorrow will shine brighter.

After Annie, I grabbed a quick bite, caught up on some work, and prepared for the next chapter of the day: Hamlet.

Hamlet: A Magical Exploration of Possibility

That evening, I found myself immersed in Robert Lepage’s Hamlet. It was an experience that ignited my creativity and broadened my perspective on the potential of dance and scenic elements in classical work.

Hamlet and its magical architecture: Lepage’s use of fabrics to create architecture, the amplification of words through effects, and even the technical errors were inspiring. They showcased the proximity of the possible—how creativity can transform limitations into opportunities. The direction played with meanings and integrated Brechtian elements in the opening moments, which caught my attention immediately.

Leaving the theater, I shared a brief but meaningful conversation with a stranger. I mentioned the Brechtian influence of those first three minutes, and he said, “I hadn’t noticed that—thank you for pointing it out.” His gratitude reminded me of my own journey: from a boy in Vega Alta dreaming of art to an artist living those dreams.

And then, the universe surprised me once more. During the applause, I noticed Lepage himself on stage. He’s here! I thought. As I stepped outside, he walked toward me. We shared a brief conversation, and a simple hug became a moment of profound connection. I shared how Diane had guided me to his work, and he received my admiration with grace. It was magical.

As James Baldwin once said, “An artist is a sort of emotional or spiritual historian. His role is to make you realize the doom and glory of knowing who you are and what you are.”

Reflections in the Air

As I sit on a plane, I reflect on a recent call inviting me to consider a position as Artistic Director. It feels like the culmination of years of dreaming, learning, and creating—not just for myself, but for my community.

Through R.Evolución Latina and Salgado Productions, I’ve witnessed how art transforms lives. This journey isn’t just mine; it’s an opportunity to amplify voices and create art that matters. If you know of a space or an opportunity that needs a committed vision, I’m here—backed by a battalion of passionate artists ready to serve.

Let’s Create Art That Matters

Art has the power to inspire, heal, and connect. I’m ready to lead, to dream, to build a future filled with hope, pride, and transformation.

Because, as Annie reminds us:

“The sun will come out tomorrow.”