They Shoot Mexicans, Don't They?
This acclaimed About Productions' theaterwork inventively explores 1920s Los Angeles when the "Latin" cultural landscape was ripe for export by west coast playwrights and east coast filmmakers. They Shoot Mexicans, Don't They? includes an ensemble cast of actors, dancers, and musicians who, along with original and vintage film, bring to life this early period in Los Angeles history.
The production spotlights the era 110-1932 when motion pictures first began to incorporate Latino history and culture into their storylines. It was also an era when California as a place was imagined through pageants including The Mission Play, a Southern California institution, that promoted the region for over 35 years, drawing an audience of over 2.5 million. They Shoot Mexicans, Don't They? is loosely based upon Chavez's family of Californios who settled in Los Angeles in 1771, ran the Ramirez Dance Studio, and performed in "The Mission Play."
The production features actors Rose Portillo and Michael Manuel PLUS the live music of QUETZAL. Collaborators include choreographer Francisco Martinez (Francisco Martinez Dance theatre), and film directors Isaac and Jude Artenstein (also producers of A Day Without a Mexican).
"... exquisite live music...sinuous dances, and gorgeous lighting..."
--Los Angeles Times, 4/15/05
"The mixed-media approach to the material is quite entertaining... "
--Back Stage West, 4/14/05
Playing at the Autry National Center from September 9 to October 1
For performance schedule and to purchase tickets please visit www.autrynationalcenter.org/tsm