“Mestizo’ which refers to the blend of the African, Spaniard, and Indian; is a Dance Company founded by Armando Moreno, director and choreographer, in the year 1999; with the intention of showcasing the artistic character of the Colombian folklore. Since, it has had an extensive repertoire presented by creative choreography, eccentric costumes, and a cast of energetic dancers who with enthusiasm an artistry present Latin Folklore and make their program an exciting, colorful and a learning experience. Presentations consist of an extensive repertoire full of color, energy, dynamism, passion, vigor, drive, spirit and exuberance. ‘A FEAST FOR THE MIND’.
For the past nineteen years Mr. Moreno has taught Colombian and Latin dance to young and adults who have found their passion and a way to maintain a healthy mind. His direction and goal sought ways to expand his vision by turning it into a non for profit organization. ‘Mestizo Dance Inc’ is now authorized by the NYS Department of State Division Corporation since May 2016.
Now its funding board has created a sub-brand which is what represents the nature, quality, character and essence of the dance company; ‘TUMBAGA * THE COLOMBIAN DANCE COMPANY OF NEW YORK’. In a formal and public way we are officially such organization.
Mission
The mission of ‘Mestizo Dance Inc.’ – ‘TUMBAGA.’ is to showcase Colombian heritage and Latin folklore through music and dance by promoting it into the diverse cultures within our communities and motivating an audience to share their own culture and be part of the extraordinary, unconventional, eccentric, adaptable, flexible, multifaceted, resourceful and versatile society that we all share on a daily basis. We seek to maintain, teach, motivate, promote and exhibit the splendor of dance tradition. We are about the transmission of customs and beliefs being handed down from generation to generation, ‘tradition’.
History
When ‘Mestizo’ was created it did so with the purpose to present Colombian culture through dance in New York City. Modesty aside it has been a great accomplishment. We have been invited to participate in many cultural events within the tri-state area for several communities. The contagious Colombian rhythms begun to evolved in New York City due to the high immigration in the past decades to the USA.
Gradually the dance company began to grow due to the disposition of cast members that have been performing for years and who have contributed to enhance our productions by making our artistic pieces more representative. We also managed to captivate the interest of community leaders and representatives who have given great reviews of our artistic display. Consequently we have gained recognitions at the level of the press and media. Among these recognitions from entities such as Association of Latin Entertainment of New York ‘ACE’, reviews from the ‘N.Y. Times’, Village Voice, Spanish Organization of Latin Actors ‘HOLA’, The Latin Press, Back Stage. Proclamations and citations of honor from Queens Borough Hall, by their Presidents Ms.Claire Shulman and Ms. Helen Marshall.
‘Mestizo’ has been growing and increasing its projection in the fullest meaning of the word. After having rehearsed in rented venues for years and having to comply with our goal at our own expense with hard work, a clear vision and ambition, we hope to achieve good fortune and continue to succeed as we have had. We have acquired a large inventory of costumes, props and accessories. We’ve worked long hours to meet our goal and keep our dream alive for the past years. Our biggest attribute is that our board, teachers, dancers and volunteers make a serious effort and find time to pursue their talent while we all still hold our jobs, school activities, and many both. We have embarked in our 2018 program with positive energy and diligence. Our new headquarters is something we have embraced for long. We seek to raise funds with each presentation so we can continue to promote, enjoy and be part of the arts.
“TUMBAGA” is the name that our Pre-Columbian cultures gave to the alloy of gold and copper to create their handicrafts and jewelry. These cultures are the solid foundation of cultural evolution in our regions. “The Colombian Dance Company of New York “honors the name TUMBAGA by showing on stage a fusion of different dance styles that showcase the artistic character of our Colombian Folklore, same as the fusion of metals in the process that exhibits a result called TUMBAGA.
Tumbaga is a talented and dedicated group of dancers who are passionate about preserving and promoting Colombian culture. The company’s performances are a joy to watch, and they offer a unique opportunity to learn about Colombian dance and culture. Get more info here: https://www.tumbagany.org/