2008: God's Driving. Get out the way.

Skilfull, Innovative, Creative, Self-starter, Relentless, Caring and Compassionate; These are just a few words to describe Mariano. A Brooklyn born Child of Garifuna decent, Mariano Knows the struggles that his ancestors had to endure in order to get him here. "I am part of a nation that began in the 1600's after a group of kidnapped Africans jumped ship on the coast of St. Vincent. The Africans mixed with the caribs from St. Vincent creating what is known today as the Garifuna Culture. We had our own political sytems and Structures. After trade and then constant war with the British, our king Joseph Chatuye was killed causing us to lose our land of St. Vincent. However, this did not break us. Today we can be found in Honduras, Guatemala, Belize, Nicaragua, and many states and cities around the world. It is this strenght that runs through my blood and It is my duty and priviledge to make sure that my ancestors are proud of my accomplishments". Mariano has a degree in Psychology which he uses to empower the youth that cross his path. His passion however is dance. He has been dancing since the age of four and choreographing since the age of 19. He has been a part of numerous productions Big and small throughout the U.S. and abroad. Moving full spead ahead, he plans to make 2008 a year of total production.