We recently connected with Oscar Rodriguez and have shared our conversation below.

Oscar , appreciate you joining us today. Are you happier as a creative? Do you sometimes think about what it would be like to just have a regular job? Can you talk to us about how you think through these emotions?

My life changed for the better when I took the decision to become a full-time performing artist. I do not regret this decision.

I have a degree in Mechanical Engineering and an MBA in Marketing/Project Management. While I was living in San Jose, Costa Rica, I worked at a pharmaceutical company as a Project Management Engineer. While it may have been a more stable career path, I didn’t find joy while sitting in a cubicle for eight hours five days a week. When I am choreographing or performing I feel fulfilled and continuously challenged. I remember clearly beginning my MFA at NYU and having the revelation that one could derive joy from learning.

Oscar , before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

I was born and raised in Venezuela. After obtaining a degree in Mechanical Engineering, I moved to Costa Rica where I discovered my passion for dance and began my professional training. It was my younger sister who encouraged me to go to my first dance. After that class I fell in love with dance. Now I am living my dreams pursuing my career as a professional dancer in New York.

I am a professional dancer and choreographer, who sings and acts. In each creative process that I encounter I am pushed to grow not only in my craft but as an advocate for an equitable career in the performing arts.

In your view, what can society to do to best support artists, creatives and a thriving creative ecosystem?

With the current state of the arts in the U.S., it is incredibly challenging to make a living solely in art based practice. The cost of living in New York City is very high and the number of jobs that pay enough are limited.

The change has to come from the U.S. Government, arts funders, and performing arts presenters. Whomever is responsible for allocating pay to performers must understand the cost of living wherever they are. The U.S. Government at large could prioritize funding Arts Education, Performing Arts spaces, and reflect the indubitable value of the arts to the rest of our country.

The world needs to be reminded on a consistent basis that art is what preserves our cultural identities throughout time.

What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?

Dance and performance are ephemeral forms. While these experiences are fleeting, they are fondly felt. I deeply enjoy collaborating with other artists and getting to share my work with an audience.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.oscarrodriguezdance.com
• Instagram: @oscarantonio0704

Image Credits
Jon Taylor Photo Carlos Belgoderi Alejandro Armas