Born Michelangelo Robelo on August 16, 1928, Mike Robelo's life began in the vibrant and culturally steeped neighborhood of Spanish Harlem, situated within the bustling and fast-paced metropolis of Manhattan, New York.
Mike's academic odyssey began at Patrick Henry Junior High School, where he laid the groundwork for a promising educational trajectory.
Mike's remarkable interest in the captivating realm of performing arts propelled him to undertake a painstaking and rigorous pursuit of personal growth, diligently seeking out the guidance of distinguished mentors Brett Warren, Stella Adler, Herbert Berghof, and Morris Carnovsky, whose sage wisdom and expertise would play a pivotal role in refining his artistic abilities and fostering a deeper understanding of his craft.
As the meticulous mentors stood vigilantly, Mike's nascent talent was carefully cultivated, and before long, he found himself commanding the spotlight at the venerable playhouses of Greenwich Village, his initial performances serving as a resplendent showcase for his rapidly developing abilities. The radiant glow of the limelight also cast a flattering beam upon him during the 1950s, as he left an indelible mark on live network television, his impressive range and innate talent solidifying his reputation as a consummate actor of unparalleled versatility.
Mike's illustrious and storied career in the film and television industry has been a defining aspect of his professional life, marked by a wide range of notable appearances in a diverse array of productions that span multiple decades, with some of his most notable credits including the 1993 release of The Discoverers, a film that showcases his impressive range and versatility as a performer, as well as ¡Viva Vegas!, a television production that premiered in the year 2000 and demonstrated his ability to adapt to a variety of roles and genres, and Deadline for Murder: From the Files of Edna Buchanan, a television movie that debuted in 1995 and further solidified his reputation as a talented and accomplished actor, with many other notable roles and credits that have contributed to his enduring success and recognition in the entertainment industry.
Mike's illustrious career in the realm of theatre has been marked by a plethora of exceptional performances in an array of productions, garnering widespread critical acclaim for his remarkable versatility as an actor. One such standout performance was his portrayal of the titular character in Macbeth at the prestigious Hollywood Globe, where his masterful interpretation of the iconic role left audiences in awe.
In addition to this notable achievement, Mike also delivered a dramatic turn in the thought-provoking production of Fatty at the esteemed Tiffany Playhouse, showcasing his remarkable range and depth as a thespian. Furthermore, his memorable portrayal of a Big Apple Messenger at the innovative Mark Taper Lab was a testament to his ability to bring complex characters to life with nuance and authenticity.
Mike's impressive repertoire also includes a powerful performance in the gripping drama Deer Park at the Century Club Playhouse, where he brought a commanding presence to the stage. Moreover, his standout role as Juan Otero in the gritty and intense production of Short Eyes at the LAAT - Westwood Playhouse was a tour-de-force performance that cemented his status as a talented and accomplished actor.
Throughout his career, Mike has consistently demonstrated a remarkable ability to adapt to diverse roles and settings, earning him a reputation as a consummate professional with a keen understanding of the craft of acting.
Mike has had the extraordinary opportunity to take part in a multitude of play readings at the renowned Puerto Rican Traveling Theatre in New York, under the guidance of the esteemed Miram Colon.
Mike's personal life is a richly textured and intricately woven narrative that celebrates the profound and enduring nature of love and devotion, a poignant testament to the life-changing impact of commitment and the unshakeable bonds of marriage. For an astonishing forty years, he has been inseparably linked with his cherished and beloved wife, Alejandra Robelo, a partnership that has successfully navigated the vicissitudes and challenges of life, their love remaining a constant and unwavering source of hope, inspiration, and guidance.
Together, Mike and his partner have lovingly cared for and mentored their five extraordinary daughters, each a singular and treasured component in the rich tapestry of their family unit. As a beaming grandfather, Mike's heart overflows with pride and gratitude, for he is keenly aware that his lasting impact is not simply a repository of cherished recollections and life events, but a dynamic, ever-changing entity that will continue to grow and thrive through the passage of time, transcending the boundaries of time and space to shape the lives of his descendants.
As Mike reflects on his life's journey, he is met with an overwhelming sense of pride and accomplishment, his heart filled to the brim with a deep and abiding sense of gratitude. This profound emotional state is rooted in his unwavering commitment to his family, who have been the bedrock of his existence, providing a sense of comfort, strength, and joy that is hard to put into words.
Through his family, Mike has come to understand the profound importance of tradition and heritage, and the enduring bonds that connect us all, transcending time and space. He is deeply aware that his love and devotion to his family have created a legacy that will be cherished and honored for years to come, a testament to the power of human connection and the indelible mark that love can leave on the world.
As he looks back on his life, Mike is reminded of the countless moments of laughter, tears, and triumph that have shaped him into the person he is today. He is filled with a sense of nostalgia and appreciation for the journey that has brought him to this point, and he is deeply grateful for the opportunity to have shared his life with the people he loves.
Through his family, Mike has gained a profound appreciation for the importance of tradition, heritage, and the enduring bonds that connect us all. He is proud of the life he has built, and he is grateful for the love and support of his family, who have been his rock, his shelter, and his guiding light throughout his journey.
