TheaterWorksUSA's Family Summer Theater finishes its free multi-venue presentation of new bi-lingual musical El Otro Oz July 10. Performances began at June 21, launching a series of engagements across New York City.
El Otro Oz follows Latiné teenager Dora, who embraces her identity after being swept off to a strange new land ahead of her upcoming quinceañera in this Mexican folk-inspired musical. The show features a book by Mando Alvarado and Tommy Newman, with music and lyrics by Jaime Lozano and Newman, and orchestrations and arrangements by Salomon Lerner and Lozano.
Starring in the company are Mayelah Barrera, Regina Carregha, Juan Danner, Gerardo Esparza, Indra Palomo, and Rafa Reyes.
Elena Araoz directs the production, which also features scenic design by Frank J. Oliva, costume design by Christopher Vergara, puppet design by Jessica Scott, choreography by Andrea Guajardo, and music direction is by James Osorio. Victoria Sanchez serves as stage manager.
“This multi-generational musical is so honest about what many families contend with—working to keep our traditions and languages, while trying to belong in the United States. I'm honored to tell this joyous story that is so close to my experience,” said Araoz in a statement.
“Working on El Otro Oz allowed me to share my experience growing up on the US/Mexico border,” said Alvarado in a statement. “I struggled with accepting and embracing my Mexican and my American identity. My hope is that once the audience goes through the journey with Dora, they’ll come to celebrate the bicultural aspects of who they are.”
The production held performances at Pregones/PRRT, El Museo del Barrio, the Sheen Center for Thought and Culture, and the Jamaica Performing Arts Center at the Jamaica Center for Arts and Learning.
For tickets and more information, visit TWUSA.org.
