The District Theatre’s plans to boost its Latino “in residence” theater vision to life has taken a hit due to the current political climate surrounding immigrants and their place in American society.
As a result, the Mass Ave venue has postponed the José Cruz González play, American Mariachi – and its many corollary activities – until next spring. The play had been scheduled to run from Friday, Oct. 17, through Sunday, Oct. 26.
The production was postponed after the October print edition of Urban Times went to press. The action follows an August decision by the organizers of Fiesta Indianapolis to cancel the popular annual event “out of deep concern for the safety and well-being of the Hispanic community.”
American Mariachi has been described as “a heartwarming and uplifting story about a young woman determined to break barriers and form an all-female mariachi band.” According to its producers, the play is filled with live music, humor and a celebration of family and perseverance, and is intended to resonates with audiences of all backgrounds.
Among the information presented in the October edition of Urban Times:
This production was set to be a major milestone in The District Theatre’s commitment to establishing a Latino theatre presence in the city, said District Theatre Executive Director Pauline Moffatt. She said that over the past three years, the theater has successfully produced Gaddafi’s Cook and presented a Latino ComedyFest, both supported by the Latino community. American Mariachi marks the next chapter in building a vibrant and sustainable Latino theater company at The District Theatre.
Beyond the stage, Moffatt said The District Theatre is committed to making American Mariachi an accessible and community-driven experience. Key initiatives were to include:
* Pay-what-you-can performances – Removing economic barriers to make theatre more accessible to Latino audiences.
* Live pre-show entertainment – Featuring local mariachi bands and folklórico dancers before each show.
* Pre- and post-show artistic conversations – Giving audiences an inside look at the creative process.
* Community activation event – Transforming the alley behind The District Theatre into a cultural celebration featuring Latino musicians, artisans and vendors for an Arts Market.
