New Jersey's Two River Theater has announced the cast and creative team for its upcoming production of American Mariachi. The work is written by José Cruz González (If by Chance), with arrangements by Cynthia Reifler Flores (Seabiscuit), and direction by James Vásquez (Hair).
The cast features Jordan Arredondo (Sanctuary City) as Mateo, Maggie Bofill (Bai Pas) as Amalia, Crissy Guerrero (State Fair) as Soyla, Addie Morales (Les Misérables) as Lucha, Marina Pires (How to Dance in Ohio) as Isabel, Bobby Plasencia (Orchi Receipt Service) as Mino, Marta Rymer (Once) as Tía Carmen, Martín Solá (How to Dance in Ohio) as Federico, Heather Velazquez (Pipeline) as Boli, and Erika Zade (Rent) as Gabby. Casting is by Caparelliotis Casting's David Caparelliots and Joe Gery.
American Mariachi follows cousins Lucha and Boli, who hope to start the first all-female mariachi band. Although it's the 1970s, they have no costumes, and their families disapprove; the pair is on a mission to make their mariachi dreams come true.
“Music, family, and joy, that’s what it’s all about,” Two River Artistic Director Justin Waldman said in a statement. “What José and James have built with American Mariachi is an utter delight. As the guitarrón strums, the trumpet blares, and the band comes together, you’ll be smiling from ear to ear.”
The creative team includes music director Alvaro Paulino Jr., scenic designer Diggle, costume designer Christopher Vergara, lighting designer Rui Rita, sound designer Fitz Patton, hair and makeup designer Gabbie Vincent, music consultant Cynthia Reifler Flores, stage manager Caroline Arboleda, and assistant stage manager Leslie Ann Boyden.
The band includes Christopher Casado on trumpet, Edgar Jamil Mata on guitarrón, Emilio Hernandez on violin, and Jared Martinez on vihuela.
Two River will offer three events in conjunction with the production. The first will be a discussion between Waldman and Vásquez, held October 2 at 5:30 PM. The second will be A Celebration of Local Latine Music, held October 13 at 7:00 PM. Finally, Two River and Lady Celestina will present Las Amigas Fabulosa Drag Night October 18 at 5:30 PM.
Visit TwoRiverTheater.org for more information.
