Christian Rocabado: “Success is not simply a destination, but a journey of preparation and perseverance”

Christian Rocabado (39) is the owner of a creative mind and talented hands, that fusion allows him to shine in Italy, where he arrived with two suitcases full of dreams and desire to succeed, and he achieved it.

He left for Europe five years ago.without thinking that there he would find the success he longed for.

Far from home, he spent six months without working, but he did not give up, he found and today he works at the Arena di Verona Foundation, at the Symphonic Lyric Opera Festival and he carried out the lighting and scenography design for the Gospel festival, without a doubt he fought and achieved it.

_How long has it been since you left Bolivia?

It has been five years since I made the decision to pack up and begin this exciting journey. I remember the process of leaving behind what was known, I began to get rid of things I didn’t need, I treasured the most precious ones and managed to condense my entire life into just two suitcases.

I left the apartment I was living in in Santa Cruz and moved to my parents’ house for a few weeks to prepare to move to Europe.

That teenager I once was was no longer more than a young man full of dreams that were reflected in those two suitcases, carefully selecting what to take with me and preparing for a new adventure in Europe. It was a moment of change and anticipation that I now view with gratitude.

_Why did you make the decision to go to Europe?

My trip to Europe was driven by a passion rooted in my heart: painting and the arts. After studying a master’s degree at the Domus Academy in Milan, Italy, I fell in love with the country and its culture. I always dreamed of returning, and the opportunity to study painting in iconic places like Paris or Florence was irresistible. After reflection, I chose Florence, and I can say with certainty that I was not wrong.

_What are you currently doing?

I have been married for a few months. My wife is Italian, she is a wonderful person who always supports me in my personal and work projects. Now I am working in the Lighting Department of the Arena di Verona Foundation, in Italy.

It is an honor to be part of the history of the famous Verona Arena and to contribute to the prestigious Symphonic Lyric Opera Festival. We are immersed in the preparation of the summer concert season, which includes more than 54 shows, an experience that fills me with pride and excitement.

_He is leaving the name of Bolivia high…

I hope so. I am passionate about my work, art and culture, and seeing the public get excited and enjoy the shows is my greatest satisfaction. Throughout my career, I have had the privilege of working on various international projects, I did the lighting and set design for the largest gospel festival in the United States, which will be broadcast on FOX. I always carry with me the pride of coming from Bolivia and I seek to represent my country in the best way.

_What projects are coming?

I’m excited about the upcoming projects I’m involved with. From exclusive galas to operas and concerts, every opportunity is a new challenge and an opportunity to grow as a professional. We are preparing the new 2024 season of the Sand Festival. I highlight my participation in the gospel concert at the Royal Albert Hall in London in the United Kingdom, which will be in October to which I am going as Light Designer, an event that represents a milestone in my career and an experience that I look forward to.

_What is the key to your success?

For me, success is not simply a destination, but a journey of preparation, potential and perseverance. I have learned valuable lessons from my mistakes and failures, and each challenge has made me stronger and prepared for what is to come. I firmly believe in perseverance and never giving up in the face of difficulties.

_You have a creative mind and talented hands. Was it difficult to earn a place with your work and talent?

Of course, it cost me a lot. I live in a country with considerable cultural and historical wealth, and having such a specific profession, the competition is strong, especially when no one knows you; So I have gone through difficult times where I have found myself without work for more than six months, sending resumes and knocking on doors. It is crucial to recognize the moment when one feels safe, as we say, but it is also important to remember, as my mother taught me, that humility is the key that opens all doors.

_What is the most difficult thing about living abroad?

The distance from my family, I miss my parents, my brothers and my nephews a lot, also the need to adapt to a new environment have been the biggest challenges of living abroad. However, every obstacle has been an opportunity to grow and learn, and every day I strive to keep the connection to my roots and culture alive.

_Do you plan to return to the country?

Of course. Although my journey has taken me far from home, Bolivia will always be in my heart.

Every trip back is an opportunity to reconnect with my roots, my family and I always look forward to the opportunity to return home.

a little of his life

Christian is an artist, lighting and set designer, and he also found love in Italy