We had the good fortune of connecting with Zaquia Mahler Salinas and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Zaquia, what principle do you value most?
Community is really important to me. It is the reason we started DISCO RIOT – the desire to support community and help build a more inclusive and collaborative dance community in San Diego. For me, it stems from the understanding that when the collective “we” are successful, individuals are more successful. When we are all involved, heard, supported, and thriving, it is the best way to create growth, innovate, and gather forward momentum.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
For me, the most exciting aspect of dance-making is the collaborative possibility. I find that I grow a lot as a person through collaboration, and that when more than one artistic voice is invited to a project, it can become richer, more dimensional experience for the artists and the audience. I believe that making art in the body is a radical act. That re-telling our stories through embodied expression is an opportunity to take power back, revolutionize and free ourselves from oppressive narratives and histories, and explore all of this in view of others through live performance that connects us to our communities. Dance is my avenue for creating change.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Most importantly, there would be a taco shop tour over the course of the trip – one must have the opportunity to experience San Diego’s extensive and delicious taco shop offerings. Local beer is also on the top of my list to share with friends when they are in town. Beach trips and a walk at Balboa park are great for outdoor relaxing. Many folks, San Diegans and visitors alike, don’t know that we have a significant arts and culture scene in San Diego, so I always incorporate an opportunity to check out some local art/music/dance/theater when people visit.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
A ton of people – I absolutely did not get here alone. I have to dedicate my shoutout to DISCO RIOT team and collaborators because without their hard work, dedication, and belief in the mission, DISCO RIOT could not serve the community or continue to grow our impact.

Website: discoriot.org
Instagram: disco_riot
Facebook: DISCORIOTSD
Other: vimeo: https://vimeo.com/discoriot

Image Credits
Sarah Annie Navarrete

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