The Sol Project, the new New York-based theatre collective dedicated to raising the visibility of Latino and Latina playwrights, has received funding to support its first production, Hilary Bettis’ Alligator, directed by Elena Araoz. The Time Warner Foundation has provided the initial grant with matching gifts from acclaimed composer and artist Lin-Manuel Miranda, as well as an anonymous donor.
Alligator will be presented in collaboration with New Georges at the Jeffrey and Paula Gural Theatre at A.R.T./New York Theatres November 27-December 18.
The Sol Project, which will develop and produce 12 works by emerging and established writers, launched in May in partnership with New Georges, Rattlestick Playwrights Theater, The Public Theater, Labyrinth Theater Company, Atlantic Theater Company, and Women’s Project Theater. Six more theatres are set to join the initiative, founded by artistic director Jacob G. Padrón with a collective of actors, directors, and producers.
The project’s honorary board also recently welcomed two new members: Chita Rivera and actor Edward James Olmos. Other previously announced members include Daphne Rubin-Vega, Junot Diaz, Raúl Castillo, Priscilla Lopez, Sandra Marquez, John Ortiz, Tony Plana, Rosalba Rolón, and Diane Rodriguez.
READ MORE: 12 THEATRES JOIN NEW INITIATIVE FOR LATINA AND LATINO WRITERS
The project is dedicated to not only engaging writers, but also directors and designers from the Latina/Latino community. Once each work receives a premiere in New York, regional partners will commit to subsequent productions.
“The Sol Project will both preserve and continue the remarkable storytelling tradition in the talented Latino community,” said Lisa Garcia Quiroz, president, Time Warner Foundation, in a press statement. “We recognize their potential to fundamentally change and forward the city’s arts and cultural communities. I believe The Sol Project has the power to ensure that the richness and vibrancy of New York’s Latino community is experienced city-wide and that the voices of emerging and established artists will always be heard.”
“I am deeply grateful to these generous funders who believe in the mission and vision of The Sol Project. They join us in fulfilling the promise of the American theater being a space for all,“ added Padrón.
Bettis’ Alligator is about twin orphans from the Florida Everglades. The play, according to New Georges, “weaves together sex and enemies, blood and whiskey, hope and murder.“ The new work will kick off the Off-Broadway company’s 25th season; for more information visit newgeorges.org/
Visit solproject.org/ for more information on the initiative.
