The Three P’s by Milteri Tucker

Milteri Tucker

New York! A city of dreams, of aspirations, of opportunities, of challenges, but most importantly a city of perseverance!  The latter goes hand in hand with that of the DREAM in order to achieve ones goals. 

  I made the big move to this city, back when I was 17 years old! Yup fresh out of High School from Puerto Rico! As some may take time to find what they want to do, or figure out their next step, I already knew what I wanted. I had my goal set and was ready to take on the new challenge and my new life as a New York City girl! Full of hopes and dreams; I can not begin to tell you how this city has challenged me, from the very first moment I stepped on NYC ground to the  little obstacles, which I've stumbled upon. Yet with God's help and the support of my family I pulled through! Adventures and lessons one can only obtain from living life itself. Perseverancia y positivismo! have been my survival and the method in which I've been able to accomplish that list of dreams and goals!

    I came to NYC and pursued my degrees in both Dance, and Biology with a minor in Chemistry. Talk about a challenge! I  attended and studied at Hunter College. Those years as an undergrad, served as a base for the next few years to come. I decided to attend Hunter because it provided a liberal arts program, where not only could I pursue dance as a major, but the sciences as well. Two careers I could choose from, yet two which required and requires a lot of myself. I recall one of my semesters being some what like this: 9am Ballet class, 12pm Bio Lecture, a gap which served for rehearsal or studio time or library time, then off to a 5 hour sometimes 6 hour laboratory. Then, come back to the dance dept for my repertory  course with professional choreographer Patrick Widrig. I didn't mind, after all I was pursuing both of my interests and passions. During my tenure at the dance department  I learned valuable tools to continue a career in dance and choreography. In 2006 I graduated with honors!

Since then, I worked in a Bio lab and had decided to give it a shot at the real dance world: ie...auditions, auditions, auditions!!!!! I've had great opportunities, and performed in theaters, the concert scene and currently I am working with top choreographer Maria Torres, and am the founder and director of my own dance company, BOMBAZO Dance Co.

   I am thrilled to be part of such a wonderful organization, R.Evolución Latina!!! I’ve been a member since its beginnings and have participated in workshops, volunteered with schools, as well as had an opportunity to perform in the 2011 Choreographers Festival. Something I thought was not going to be possible, since I was recuperating from knee surgery. But I looked at my situation and turned it around! Took it as a time to re-evaluate my goals, examine carefully my strength and weaknesses and to be fearless! In that mind set, I recalled walking in to RL’s audition not letting nor using my injury as an excuse to do less, on the contrary showing the panel how much passion and determination I had. With perseverance and faith in myself I have been able to accomplish my goals and set new ones! But what gives me the most satisfaction is not only to be able to perform, but it is to expand my voice and share my vision and thoughts with others through dance. I love dancing, just as much as I love to choreograph. Especially when I am sharing a part of my culture with a broader audience.

  For three consecutive years I’ve been assisting and teaching BOMBA (Afro- Puerto Rican song, music and dance) to students at RL's D2GB Performing Arts Camp. I can tell you, that I receive even more satisfaction teaching kids of all ages, along side Jose Ortiz & BombaYo. The look on their faces and how all move so well to the basic rhythm is overwhelmingly gratifying!!!

   My message to you all is the three P’s: Patience, Perseverance and a Positive mentality! Love what you do and pursue it like there is no tomorrow. Listen to your mentors, professionals, and always strive to learn something new each day! Be patient and rely own your craft! The three P’s have helped me continue my path as a performer & scientist!