We were lucky to catch up with Carlos Fittante recently and have shared our conversation below.
Carlos, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. Are you able to earn a full-time living from your creative work? If so, can you walk us through your journey and how you made it happen?
Yes, I make a living as a freelance dancer in New York City, which is no easy task. My income is based on three skills: teaching, performing, and choreographing. My career has taught me to keep my mind open and most importantly, to stay focused on my love of dance. Fame and fortune are not important. Luck also has played a role in my life. For example, I have a supportive family and loving friends. Not to mention that I have worked with many outstanding artists who have artistically inspired and educated me.
I think the sensitivity and intelligence of my body is my special talent. It informs every aspect of my understanding of movement. I am amazed when I consider my dance specializations: Balinese, Baroque, and Spanish Escuela Bolera. In each of these dance traditions, I have taught myself to move so that I feel both authentic and stylistically compelling.
Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.
I discovered dance as a senior in High School where on a whim I auditioned for the school’s production of Oklahoma. To my surprise, I got cast in a speaking role, as well as a dancer in the chorus. The acting was enjoyable, but I loved the dancing! After that experience, I secretly took a ballet class at a local dance studio where I instantly fell in love with the art form. Shortly thereafter, I moved to New York to follow my dream of dance.
What can society do to ensure an environment that’s helpful to artists and creatives?
Art is for everyone, so if a society provides lots of opportunities for people to explore their creative impulses then the arts will flourish.
Is there a particular goal or mission driving your creative journey?
My goal as an artist is to fully realize my creativity through my craft. I also aspire to be a good person because I value the satisfaction and peace that both these endeavors bring.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://balamdancetheatre.blogspot.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/balamdancetheatre/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/balamdancetheatre
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/balam-dance-theatre
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/BALAMDance
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/user/BalamDance/videos?view_as=public
Image Credits
Photo Credit: Julie Lemberger (Baroque) Photo Credit: Julie Lember (Balinese)