UW-Parkside hosting a prelude to upcoming one-man play ‘Carpa Revolution’ on Thursday

SOMERS — The University of Wisconsin-Parkside will sponsor the creation of a one-man play performed by Fred Blanco in fall of 2023, titled “Carpa Revolution.” The play will depict the struggles of the Mexican Revolution and relating the Mexican experience to the struggles of today.

In a prelude of the performance, Blanco will be offering a workshop as an introduction to the theatrical work, and to provide insight into the creative process. This event will be held in the Black Box Theatre on Thursday (Nov. 10) from 4 to 6 p.m. and is free and open to the public.

Made possible by a grant from the Council for Adult and Experiential Learning and Excelencia in Education, the one-man theatrical presentation “Carpa Revolution” will chronicle the Mexican Revolution of 1910. The story is told through the eyes of a Mexican vaudevillian, Mario, during the backdrop of the revolution and the traveling tent shows of Mexico, known as Las Carpas De Mexico.

A great deal of the process has been involved in in-depth research, writing, and character development to bring the best perspective, breadth, and heart of the rebels and civilians during the Mexican Revolution. Audience members will be enriched as they engage with the host of characters in this dynamic, emotional, and original storytelling experience that live theatre offers.

Peggy James, Dean of the College of Social Sciences and Professional Studies, commented that the project is a “true example of community theatre, the story highlights a nation and a culture making a people’s history, and the relevance of that struggle to today’s challenges.”

The creator and actor of the stage presentation is Fred Blanco, a Los Angeles-based actor with a solo show based on the life of Civil Rights leader Cesar Chavez. Having written and developed this piece from interviews and extensive workshops, the show now tours internationally. The Stories of Cesar Chavez continues to provide educational outreach throughout the country.  Nationally, he demonstrates the power of art to open a space where people can discuss relevant social issues.

Attendees will discover how playwriting is accomplished and the cultural components that are integral to the process.  As a Theatre of the Oppressed, this theatrical workshop combines performance, activism practice, and education to tackle social issues of the past and the present.

Registration is encouraged, but not required. To register and learn more visit www.uwp.edu/csspsevents