Sueños: Our American Musical
Powerful New Work by Award-Winning Playwright and Composer Jesse J. SanchezLas Positas College (LPC) is thrilled to announce the first theater presentation of Sueños: Our American Musical, an original production by celebrated playwright and composer Jesse J. Sanchez. Opening on March 21, 2025, at the Mertes Center for the Arts, this groundbreaking contemporary musical, produced in collaboration with The Actors Conservatory at LPC, celebrates the rich tapestry of Mexican/Chicano culture and explores the intricate dynamics of family, identity, and the American Dream.
A Story of Family, Dreams, and Determination
Set in the late 1990s in the vibrant San Francisco Bay Area, Sueños follows the journey of Ali Viramontes, a young aspiring classical composer with dreams of attending Juilliard. With the support of his mother and new friends, Ali pursues his passion despite facing resistance from his father, Alex, who has other plans for him. The musical delves into the challenges of balancing parental expectations, cultural identity, and personal aspirations.
“Sueños has been my creative vision since 2017, and I’ve had the privilege of developing it across the country with support from The Orchard Project, The Johnny Mercer Writers Grove at Goodspeed Musicals, New York Theatre Barn Core Programming, Barn On Fire Festival of New Musicals, and through a National Alliance of Musical Theatre Frank Young Grant,” said Sanchez. “I’m thrilled to finally bring Sueños to the Bay Area, specifically to Las Positas College and The Actors Conservatory at LPC, where students will engage with a work in development that centers on a Mexican family set just 70 miles from Las Positas. This is a rare and meaningful opportunity to collaborate with a Hispanic-Serving Institution on an original piece of American theater, written for and by a Mexican artist. I’m excited to share this journey and continue developing the story with this incredible community.”
A Celebration of Mexican/Chicano Culture
With a powerful score that weaves Mexican and Latiné rhythms into traditional musical theater, Sueños is more than a performance; it’s a celebration of community and culture. The production highlights the intergenerational struggles, triumphs, and stories of Mexican-American families as they navigate the complexities of cultural identity and the pursuit of the American Dream. Featuring a cast of dynamic characters and vibrant musical numbers, Sueños brings to life the experiences of those who have contributed to the rich cultural fabric of the United States.
Acclaimed Creative Team
Jesse J. Sanchez is a multi-talented writer, composer, and music director whose work has been recognized nationally. His credits include the national tour of Hamilton, as well as celebrated productions like Kinky Boots and In The Heights. A recipient of multiple awards, Sanchez’s compositions often explore themes of identity, culture, and resilience, drawing from his own Mexican heritage. He has been involved in the development of Sueños since 2017, nurturing the piece through prestigious platforms such as The Orchard Project and the Johnny Mercer Writers Grove at Goodspeed Musicals.
Jeff Chambers is an accomplished composer and orchestrator with an impressive portfolio that spans musical theater and film scoring. Known for his dynamic and innovative approach, Chambers has collaborated with Sanchez to blend traditional musical theater elements with the vibrant sounds of Mexican and Latiné music, creating a score that resonates with authenticity and emotional depth. His work on Sueños marks a continuation of his commitment to pushing the boundaries of musical storytelling.
Karina Gutiérrez brings her expertise as a director and scholar to this groundbreaking production. Her directorial work has been widely praised for its focus on the intersection of politics and performance, particularly within Chicanx and U.S. Latinx theatre. With a background that includes both academic and professional accolades, Gutiérrez is dedicated to amplifying the voices of underrepresented communities and exploring the narratives that shape their experiences. Her direction of Sueños aims to highlight the nuanced stories of Mexican-American families, ensuring the production’s themes are conveyed with both sensitivity and strength.
Event Details
Sueños: Our American Musical will run for two weekends only, from March 21 to March 30, 2025. Performances are scheduled for Fridays and Saturdays at 7 PM, with matinees on Sundays at 2 PM. The opening night celebration on March 21 will feature a special reception, providing attendees the opportunity to meet the cast, crew, and creative team.
Don’t miss the first theater presentation of Sueños: Our American Musical! Secure your tickets today to be part of this unforgettable celebration of heritage, family, and the power of dreams.
Ticket Information
Tickets available at: lpc.ludus.com can be purchased online at https://lpc.ludus.com/index.php.
A Unique Collaboration with the Community
Sueños marks a significant collaboration between Las Positas College and The Actors Conservatory at LPC, offering students and community members the chance to engage with a work in development that speaks to their own experiences and heritage. This partnership underscores LPC’s commitment to showcasing diverse voices and fostering cultural representation within the arts.
About Las Positas College
Las Positas College is a Hispanic-Serving Institution dedicated to providing high-quality education and fostering community engagement. The Theatre Arts Department offers students the opportunity to participate in innovative and meaningful productions that reflect the diverse stories and experiences of the community.
About Las Positas College Actors Conservatory
The Actors Conservatory at Las Positas College seeks to inspire and prepare students for a life in the performing arts. The Actors Conservatory's foundational belief is that inspired, trained, and professional actors will be leaders in the next generation of artists, passionately advocating for theater as a culturally relevant art form and viable trade skill. The Conservatory challenges students to find their truth, inner strength, and outer artists, enriching their career path and the communities and stages around them.
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