Playhouse Fresno, a theater company established this year, presents their inaugural production about three siblings, two undocumented, the third born in the United States, navigating life in a mixed status home in the Central Valley. The plot transcends when Earth makes contact with extraterrestrials, further complicating the siblings’ already complex lives.
The story explores the intersections of immigration, American news narratives, growing up, dreaming, and feeling stuck in a “deeply personal and wildly satirical play”. The show balances comedy, drama, and a “dash” of science fiction.
“We re-imagine a typical coming-of-age story to a reality that is widely ignored in our society,” director and founder of Playhouse Fresno, Claudio Lasso said in a press release shared with the Community Alliance.
Playhouse Fresno’s mission is to “support local playwrights and underrepresented theater artists in Fresno by developing original works, providing accessible workshops, and creating a space where all are truly welcome.”
The play was written by Rodolfo Robles Cruz. The cast includes local actors Aleah Rashel Micu, Toph Ortiz, Mason Beltran, Elena Navarrette, Alexander Prado, Bri Villanueva, Hardcastle, and Wade Pierson.
El Rayo; or Self-Deportation Nation at Arte Américas in the Main Gallery.
June 12 (evening), doors open at 7 p.m., show starts at 7:30 p.m.
June 13 (matinee), doors open at 1:30 p.m., show starts at 2 p.m.
June 13 (evening), doors open at 7 p.m., show starts at 7:30 p.m.
June 14 (matinee), doors open at 1:30 p.m., show starts at 2 p.m.
Tickets are “pay what you can” at the door. Fresno Unified students get free admission with valid student ID.
The play is funded in part by the City of Fresno Measure P Expanded Access to Arts and Culture Fund and is sponsored by CMAC. For more information, visit instagram.com/playhousefresno
