Julio Hugo Penagos is a cornerstone. What sets him apart is his dedication. He is always prepared and confident, making seemingly large obstacles within the process manageable when he's around.
On April 6th and 7th, Enforced Arch is presenting their latest work, ‘ALLIANCE’ Art & Activism, which features past and current pieces by creative directors James Koroni and Tracey Katof. Julio Hugo Penagos is a member of this project and we couldn’t be more thrilled to have him join us on this adventure! After rehearsal this past week we had an opportunity to ask him a few questions…
How do you as an individual live the ‘ALLIANCE’ of Art & Activism?
By creating something new every day, and encouraging others to do so as well. I live by the philosophy of creating just for fun. Exercising your creativity every day not only keeps you in great spirits but also keeps your brain active. I am also a strong believer of dreaming big. Having this profession has allowed me to teach and encourage children to create, and encourage them to fight for their passion.
What part of the rehearsal process or subject material did you find most inspiring?
The human interaction. It is truly inspiring to work with genuinely sweet and talented individuals with open minds and a great attitude. They believe in something, and they use their art to create a positive change in the world.
I am not a morning person, LOL, but working with these people early in the morning never felt like work. Every day it was walking into a bubble of creativity, time always flew by.
I also enjoyed all the different kinds of dancers I got to work with. The quality of movement in all of them is so different and interesting, that for me, observation and learning was also one of my favorite parts of the process.
What did you learn from your experiences that you would like to share with others?
Positivism. Always see the glass half full. The performing arts business is a tough one. I know that sometimes it gets hard, but you have to believe in yourself. Practice your craft every day and be better, every day.
I have had a long and bumpy road here from Guatemala City, but it is all about keeping it positive and knowing that if you want something bad enough, you will get it. Passion and positivism will get you far.
For TICKETS to ‘ALLIANCE’ Art & Activism, click here: EnforcedArch.com/tickets/
ALLIANCE: Part 1 – Lauren Cox ALLIANCE: Part 2 – Charles Alexis Desgagnes ALLIANCE: Part 3 – Katherine Roarty ALLIANCE: Part 4 – Alexandra Shieron ALLIANCE: Part 5 – Klara Beyeler ALLIANCE: Part 6 – Clara Lofaro ALLIANCE: Part 7 - Julio Hugo Penagos