My Journey

I'm a proud first-generation LGBTQIA+ Cuban American hailing from the sunny streets of Miami, Florida. After a fulfilling journey in the corporate world, I'm now returning where my true passion lies: the theater. My ultimate ambition? To forge a path as a professional director. As I embark on this exhilarating journey, let me walk you through where I've been and where I'm headed next.

 

Finding Directing:

Crafting tales and staging impromptu performances in my living room as a child, my love affair with theater ignited. However, it was in my first middle school drama class that I discovered theater wasn't just a pastime; it was my calling. Venturing into the University of Miami, I initially set my sights on an acting career until fate nudged me toward directing. Working at the very same children’s theater where I once starred in productions, I found myself directing Elton John and Tim Rice’s "Aida," a pivotal moment that sparked my passion for directing. This led me to eventually oversee Quantum Entertainment, UM's student-led theater. I was inspired to direct more advanced material and collaborate with the student community. 

 

Teaching Theater:

Post-college, my journey led me to the high seas as part of the DreamWorks Experience onboard Royal Caribbean cruise ships. Craving a return to my roots, I ventured back to Miami with the intention of being a drama teacher. At Doral Academy Preparatory School, I expanded the theater magnet program, navigating the challenges of limited space with boundless creativity. Our productions, including an innovative rendition of Sarah Ruhl's "Eurydice," garnered widespread acclaim and accolades, showcasing my dedication to nurturing performers to reach their fullest potential.

 

Detouring to Human Resources:

Life's twists and turns ushered me into the corporate world of Human Resources, where I pursued a Master's in Human Resource Management from Florida International University. Over the past seven years, I've embarked on a progressive career journey, culminating with my role as the Director of Talent Enablement for OpenTable & KAYAK. Leveraging my theater background, I infused creativity into solutions through compelling case studies and impactful storytelling. Despite the achievements and accolades, my heart always remained tethered to directing, fueling my unwavering passion for theater.

 

Where I’m Headed:

Now armed with a wealth of experiences and an unyielding desire to create, I'm steering my course back to the theater. Currently immersed in a virtual graduate certificate program in Arts Management from Colorado State University, I'm gearing up to fuse my creative instincts with solid business acumen. Let's join forces and create some innovative theater magic together!