playbill vip

“A great luchador learns how to fall before they learn anything else.” - The Mask Maker.

When I was first approached to direct this show by Teatro Audaz Artistic Director Laura, it was almost fate. This would be the second time this script would have fallen onto my lap. My best friend gave me his script, and she simply told me, “You’ll love this script. It's the story of Mulan but with Luchadors.” I took it from her, gave her a sheepish smile, and responded, "Thanks love.” And I thought to myself, why on earth would I, a gay man, want to do a show about Lucha Libre? The only thing I know about wrestling is that Dawyne can smell what you are cooking. 

However, I was moved when I read the words and the beautiful story from Senior Rios. This story wasn’t just about men in spandex fighting. Luchadora! Celebrates la Familia, tradition, and more importantly, the Latina experience. This is the story I hope my nieces and all other little future luchadoras get to hear. Strength and courage are not just for one group, it comes from within, and with the right support and love, you can conquer any obstacle. This goes for not only little Latinx girls but anyone who has ever been told “No” or “You shouldn’t do that.” This story and this production are for you. 

When watching this production, I hope you get a sense of Hispanic whimsy as we jump back and forth between the past and present. Papel Picado greatly influenced our storytelling as our young Lupita is forced to fight tradition. We use Papel Picado to decorate at any time of celebration. It is made from thin tissue paper and was once made by hand to create beautifully intricate designs for any occasion. Now, the thing about papel picado is that it's very delicate and fragile, much like our traditions. It can withstand most wind and rain, but eventually, it will become undone and torn. This does not mean that it is gone forever, we simply make more, but this time we can change the picture, and we can even add something new. This is the story of Luchadora! This is the story of us. Tradition is muy importante and should not be forgotten, but it will eventually need to adapt and be renewed for a NEW celebration. 

I hope you walk away seeing your familia on stage and get empowered. I hope you get to escape and enjoy the cultura of Lucha Libre, something I knew very little about but now I am following a few fighters on TikTok. Cheer for Mascara Rosa! Cheer for El Hijo! Gracias for supporting live theatre and Teatro Audaz. Viva Teatro!!!