Mini interview: Luis Rodriguez

Dancer of the day: Luis Rodriguez came to Cullberg Ballet in 2006. In The Strindberg Project he performs in Tilman O’Donnell’s new work.

Why, and when did you start dancing?
I've been dancing to Merengue, and Salsa music since before it was cool. I started formally training because I hated my shitty neighborhood in NYC and wanted to fly away. It was an escape.

What is music to you?
A drug.

What is an inspirational moment in dance to you?
When I see babies dancing. Some things can't be taught. 

Improvisation plays an important role in Tilman O'Donnell's works. As a dancer how do you work with/approach the impro technique?
Imagination is key and finding pleasure is the Bonus. Feeling crazy comes with the territory. I try not to shy away from it too much.

How would you describe the piece you dance in?
It's under construction.

Luis was born in New York, USA. He is educated at New York City H.S. for the Performing Arts, The Ailey School, and received a B.F.A from The Juilliard School under the direction of the late Benjamin Harkarvy. Since 2002, Luis has danced with Nationaltheater Mannheim, Ballet Gulbenkian, Companhia Olga Roriz and been a guest artist at Ballett Frankfurt. He has also been engaged with productions for Le Temps d’Images Festival, the Korzo Theater and DV8 Physical Theater.