Teatro Al Sur's First Performance

CSULB's theater department welcomes its first production entirely in Spanish as Teatro Al Sur performs "Nuestra Senora de las Nubes."

TAS is a theater group geared towards addressing Chicano/Latino issues on the CSULB campus. Its primary mission is to publicize commonly overlooked problems in the community and provide a medium in which students can discuss these topics.

TAS has spent the latter of the semester fundraising for their first production entitled "Nuestra Senora de las Nubes," which directly translates to "our lady of the clouds." The production pays tribute to Argentinian playwright Aristides Vargas, who originally wrote the play. This production tells the story of two political exiles who encounter one another and engage in a discussion about their expatriation.

This production takes place on May 15 and 16 at 7:30 p.m in the Showcase Room in the theater building. Presale for this event is $10 and $15 at the door. To make reservations, contact Professor Alicia Del Campo at (323) 397-2477.

Image Courtesy of Google Images

Josefina Lopez of "Real Women Have Curves" Comes to CSULB

The Chicano/Latino studies department looks forward to next week as renowned playwright Josefina Lopez comes to CSULB.

This critically acclaimed playwright, screenwriter, author and poet is recognized for scripting the play "Real Women Have Curves," which was later made into a blockbuster film starring actress America Ferrara.

"I loved 'Real Women Have Curves,'" said Cynthia De La Cruz. "I wish I could go, but I have class."

"Real Women Have Curves" tells the story of Ana (America Ferrera), a young girl seeking higher education. However, her familial obligations hinder her from doing so. Her Mexican family wants her to stay home, work, and provide for her relatives. Her traditional mother also wants her to get a boyfriend and conform to the stick thin images of women portrayed by the media. Regardless, Ana stays true to herself and pursues college, while simultaneously helping her family through financial support. She even lands herself a boyfriend who does not care about her weight.



While this film has proven to be a success in past years, Lopez has pursued additional ventures in her professional career. Most recently she has been involved with the non-profit organization Casa 0101, which provides scriptwriting consultation for students in Boyle Heights interested in the field of theatre. Casa 0101 provides educational training in filmmaking, art and dance.

"I feel like a celebrity is coming to school," said Melissa Ramirez, a Chicano/Latino studies major.

Lopez will be lecturing at AS-244 at 11 p.m. on Monday, May 4. For more information, visit www.josefinalopez.com.

Image Courtesy of Google Images. Video Clip Courtesy of YouTube.

CSULB's Teatro Al Sur Tries to Raise Funds

CSULB's Teatro Al Sur is a theatre group that is currently working on producing its first Spanish play. In the meantime, they are trying to fundraise in order to better finance the newly formed club.

TAS is having a fundraiser at Viento Y Agua Cafe and Gallery in order to raise funds for their upcoming productions. Members of TAS plan on performing Nueva Trova at the quaint cafe and essentially educate attendees on what the genre Nueva Trova is. This type of music originates from Cuba and is widely recognized for its political and progressive lyrics.

TAS is the first group of its kind. It aims to produce all Spanish productions and promote intercultural dialogue and understanding for CSULB students.

One production currently in the works is based off Argentinian playwright Arístides Vargas' prior work. It depicts issues of exile and immigration, which TAS believes will open up dialogue about these topics on campus.

The showcase begins on Sunday, April 19, at 5 p.m.

Image Courtesy of Viento Y Agua Cafe Myspace Page