Latino, Latina, Latino/a, Latin@, Latinx, Latin American, Latinoamericano and so many hyphenates. Do we need one label? There are so many conversations flying around the country and the globe regarding the self-definition or our diverse communities here and abroad. I am so thrilled that so much new work is pouring out challenging so many labels regarding culture and gender. Words are our tools that as playwrights we chisel into our truths to share with others. The last few years have witnessed the huge updating of an old-fashioned notion in this country of “Latino theater”, challenging the very label itself. This in turn challenges the term “American theater”. Who claims it? Who belongs to it? Who owns it? What role does history play in it?

I strive to explore the breadth, depth and diversity of our cultures through the "lesser told story" of those without a voice. The intersectional realities of Latinos who are homeless are struggling with addiction and dis/ability have influenced the body of my work. Having been raised in within a Peruvian family structure alongside my sister with Down's Sydrome has also brought color and perception to my plays and the need to question able-ism, ability and art-making.

I am inspired to offer a rainbow of truths to share with Seattle audiences and beyond, each representing an aspect of our “Latinidad” (“Latinity”). This includes perspectives from within the United States, as well as South America and the Caribbean, in order to highlight our global connection with the rest of The Americas. This is all part of forging a modern theatrical identify, a product of history, language and tall ships. It is our past. It is our future. Thank you for coming along on the voyage.