What is the play "Isla y Tierra" about? Isla (Puerto Rico) y Tierra (Mexico) This is a true story about a personal experience in the entertainment industry. I wrote about what I know, and it is bilingual. The characters are real, living, and in most cases, in the play. There is a lot to say about our complex Hispanic culture and it's differences. It would take several plays to even begin to touch the surface of it's rich complexities, but I was able to portray subtle nuances (pardon my French) in within the context of the main story.
Why did you decide to do this project? Waukesha, WI has a very large Hispanic community that is not utilizing the services of the civic theater. There are adult, teen and children's classes offered at the theatre that could enrich the lives of our children, and our diverse community. While the theatre is for everyone, Latinos are simply not tuned into these services mostly because Latino programing is scarce, with little promotion for whatever theatrical programing exists in Waukesha. The Waukesha Civic Theater has been in existence for 52 years and it has never had a Latino production or an interpretation of a stage play written by a Latino.
How did this opportunity come to you? The artistic director of WCT, John Cramer, offered me an opportunity to do a presentation. When I toured the over million dollar renovation, and learned more about the theatre's history and most importantly, the shortage of Latino programing, I decided to take on the challenge. Going on stage to sing was one dimensional. This event needed more, and I decided to go for it.
What has been the biggest challenge in doing this production? Writing, producing, acting and singing in a production, as well as finding sponsors, is overwhelming. I have a limited budget to work with so I am wearing many hats ( Where is Salma Hayek when I need her?) I understand that the theatre has an obligation to best utilize its gifts, and grants to reach the most audiences. So filling the room in both productions so that we can open the door for future programing is important. As a community we need to adapt a "Si Se Puede" attitude and support this by purchasing tickets in bundles, or one at a time, to fill the seats.
Who have been your biggest supporters? La Casa de Esperanza Inc. is supporting this presentation beyond my expectations. I am very grateful Mr. Anselmo Villareall, exectutive director, of La Casa, and his wonderful support staff for their support. Victor Huyke, editor of El Conquistador and John Torres, CEO of WJTI El Nuevo Ritmo, are also behind us and are promoting "Isla y Tierra" generously. Casa Del Rio Restaurant, in Waukesha has stepped up to the plate in a big way. The awesome musicians of Cache and Pueblo Latino, are working hard at this collaboration and the pride in their music and art is showing through. The same for Alex Rodriguez, this productions dance director, and his partner Brienne Hale, and their group and all the other dancers. Friends are spreading the word, and without all of these people, we would be playing to an empty house we would be set back another few years. Beverly Perterson, Director of Development of the Waukesha Civic Theatre has been available day and night to help me with sponsorship acquisition.
Can I get tickets to the "Isla y Tierra" production if I do not go to the cast open house party? Yes, by calling the Waukesha Civic Theatre box office at (262) 547-0708. If you pay for your tickets, they can hold them for you until the day of the production.
Do I need to RSVP to the cast party at Cafe Esperanza? Reservations are strongly recommended, so that we know how to gage the hors' douevres. But if you don't get around to it, come on down anyway, they can handle the crowds.
Is there a charge to go to the party?- No, the party is free, so is the food, but there is a cash bar. We do hope however, that you get caught up in the excitement and purchase tickets to the play. We need the support of the community to pack the house for both the 4:00 p.m. and the 8:00p.m. shows. The good news is that tickets are only $19 compared to a hundred dollars for a play in the big city. Also, there is a 20% discount on tickets that you buy at the cast party.