Choreographing "Mambo Kings"










Cuban Pete, what was it like being the choreographer of the movie, Mambo Kings? And what did that movie, or its storyline mean to you?

Cuban Pete: The choreography that I was asked to do gave me an opportunity to show what I can do. From my background, people in the industry were saying that the only person who can do this is Cuban Pete, so doing that for the Mambo Kings was the greatest thing. I, of course, started by teaching about the importance of the Clave.

It seems interesting that your childhood friends, like Tito Puente, and Desi Arnaz Jr. - whose father and mother, Desi Arnaz Sr. and Lucille Ball immortalized you in his song, "Cuban Pete" - all ended up in the same film. Was that planned or a coincidence?

Cuban Pete: It was a coincidence and the movie even reflected many of our real-life personalities.

What was Antonio Banderas like?

Cuban Pete: He kept me out late, having fun, listening to all the bands in New York City. When it came to learning, he was a fast learner; however, I am an excellent teacher!


Miami Cit

y Ballet With Edward Villella

What was it like for you and your present partner, Barbara Craddock, to be the first to merge together Latin, Mambo and Ballet for the Miami City Ballet?

Cuban Pete: Edward Villella, from Miami City Ballet came to us. He said, "I need good authenticity, on which I can build my Ballet." He wanted to merge these dance styles and make Mambo the finale. So, we gave his dancers the authentic steps, upon which they added the ballet.I thought at first, what am I going to do with Ballet; it's not my thing. But I came to Florida, and we did it. It was so good. The Ballet Students were on time - they were all on time the whole time. I cried after because I had helped with the accomplishment of something great by the end result of the Ballet.




Dancing for Queen Elizabeth

How did you get the opportunity to dance for Queen Elizabeth?

Cuban Pete: I was working in Canada at a club and got asked to go to Europe to dance. I said, "Wow, why not!" So the arrangements were made and I went. That was - wow - people were so nice and it was the biggest reception I had ever had. That was a happy time for me. I get emotional about that because it let me see another side of life, different from my childhood.