Arena Stage at the Mead Center for American Theater's world premiere of John Leguizamo's The Other Americans officially opens November 1 following previews that began October 18 on Arena’s Fichandler Stage.
Directed by Tony winner Ruben Santiago-Hudson, the production continues through November 24.
Joining the Tony-honored Leguizamo on stage are Luna Lauren Velez (Dexter) as Patti, Bradley James Tejeda (The Inheritance) as Eddie, Sarah Nina Hayon as Veronica, Rosa Arredondo (So Help Me Todd) as Norma, Trey Santiago-Hudson (Toros) as Nick, and Rebecca Jimenez (The Comedy of Errors) as Toni. The company also includes understudies Juan Francisco Villa, Johnny Anthony, and Odette Gutiérrez del Arroyo.
The Other Americans casts Leguizamo as Nelson Castro, a Colombian-Puerto Rican laundromat owner determined to give his family a better life—but at what cost? When his son returns home from a mental wellness facility, Nelson's world unravels.
“This story is important because it is an American story,” said Santiago-Hudson in an earlier statement. “That’s where the title comes from. So often, the Latin community is treated like the other community when, in fact, there is no concern or problem that people face in life that doesn't happen in the Castro house.…Choosing to be a part of this production was a no-brainer. John Leguizamo is the fiercest advocate for inclusion and diversity I have ever known. I am grateful to be here, hoping to bring D.C. audiences one of the finest productions that Arena Stage has ever had.”
The creative team also includes set designer Arnulfo Maldonado, costume designer Kara Harmon, lighting designer Jen Schriever, sound designer Justin Ellington, hair designer LaShawn Melton, associate director Timothy Johnson, fight director Thomas Schall, and intimacy coordinator Ann James with dramaturgy by Jack Phillips Moore. New York casting is by Caparelliotis Casting's David Caparelliotis and Joseph Gery. James Latus is the stage manager, and the assistant stage manager is Ana Muñoz.
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