To understand what Chicano Hollywood “wants”, you first need to understand what a “Chicano” is.  

In 1970 award-winning journalist Ruben Salazar wrote the definitive article defining the word Chicano in his Los Angeles Times article titled:  “Who is a Chicano and What is it that Chicanos Want?

In his article Salazar wrote, “A Chicano is a Mexican-American with a non-Anglo image of himself. He resents being told Columbus “discovered” America when the Chicano’s ancestors, the Mayans and the Aztecs, founded highly sophisticated civilizations centuries before Spain financed the Italian explorer’s trip to the “New World.”

The passage captures why the term became associated by many Mexican-Americans  with cultural pride and self-determination.

However over the past five decades, the meaning of “Chicano” has evolved. Once embraced as a political identity rooted in the Chicano Movement, it later fell out of favor among some Mexican Americans, while others continued to wear it as a badge of cultural pride. Today, a new generation, and not just Mexican- Americans, are reclaiming the term in ways that emphasize identity, history, and empowerment.  

So what is Chicano Hollywood?

Johnny Murillo, founder of Chicano Hollywood, defines it as a platform “a community built to elevate, empower, and showcase Chicanos and Latino storytellers”. But the vision extends far beyond that simple definition.

That vision might be rooted in past efforts by several Latino organization, who throughout the years were founded for the same purpose.  Chicano Hollywood is part of a broader Latino entertainment ecosystem that has been nurtured over past decades by these organization.  Most notably Nosotros (Founded in 1970 by Ricardo Montalban), Hispanic Organization of Latin Actors (HOLA) (Founded in 1975);  LatinHeat LEMI Conference (Founded 1995); and NALIP (Founded in 1999) – among them.

What distinguishes Chicano Hollywood is its early focus on Mexican-American independent filmmakers—many who existed outside the Hollywood’s traditional power structure. However, Murillo’s vision went beyond its core base, growing to include all Latinos and making alliances with non-Latino entities and filmmakers. Chicano Hollywood created an infostructure from production to distribution.

“For too long, our stories have been underrepresented or misrepresented in mainstream media,” Murillo explains. adding, “Chicano Hollywood was created to change that — to build our own lane, our own economy, and our own global stage.”  

Murillo, who has been working in Hollywood for more than 15 years as an actor/line producer and screenwriter, began building Chicano Hollywood in 2021.  According to Murillo, the impetus for the Chicano Hollywood brand came from his lived experiences, as well of those of his peers in the Mexican-American community, attempting to pitch stories to the studios.

It is no secret that Chicanos/Latinos represent one of the largest minority groups in the United States. Their economic influence, is noted in the Latino Donor Collaborative studies — increasingly their economic, cultural and creative impact—is undeniable.

For decades, Chicano culture has been portrayed stereotypically in major Hollywood films (Walk Proud (1979), Spanglish (2004), without a balance of characters. It took Latino filmmakers like the following to make independent films that portrayed another side of the Latino experience.

Robert Rodriguez

• El Mariachi (1992)
• Desperado (1995)
• From Dusk Till Dawn (1996)
• Spy Kids (2001)

Gregory Nava

• El Norte (1983)
• Selena (1997)
• My Family (1995)

Luis Valdez

• Cisco Kid (1994)
• La Bamba (1987)

Eva Longoria

• La Guerra Civil (2022)
• Flamin’ Hot (2023)

Despite the box office success of these films, Latino-led films have generally received fewer large-scale studio investments than comparable projects centered on Black film projects, as the 2026 UCLA’s latest Hollywood Diversity Report notes.

So what does Chicano Hollywood want?

Murillo quickly understood that success in entertainment requires more than talent alone. It demands infrastructure, education, access, and ownership. In other words, it requires an ecosystem.

At its core, Chicano Hollywood focuses on three major pillars.

1. Building a Creative Ecosystem for Chicano and Latino Talent

One of the organization’s primary goals is to provide career development and professional education for emerging storytellers, filmmakers, and creatives. Access to industry knowledge has historically been inequitable, and many talented voices simply never receive the tools or mentorship needed to navigate the entertainment industry.

Through the Chicano Hollywood Academy, aspiring creators can access courses such as How to Produce a Micro-Budget Film, How to Write a Contained Script, and the academy’s latest offering, How to Write a Vertical Series.

The company’s vision is ambitious—to establish creative hubs in 15 to 20 major cities and build a pipeline of in-house talent capable of becoming the next generation of writers, producers, directors, and entertainment professionals. The goal is not simply participation in the industry but ownership within it.

2. Creating Independent Media and Distribution Platforms

Another key aspect of Chicano Hollywood’s mission is the creation of multimedia platforms that allow creators to independently produce, distribute, and promote their work.

For many filmmakers and storytellers, gaining access to traditional media channels, distribution deals, or large promotional platforms remains a significant challenge. Chicano Hollywood understands that representation is not only about creating content; it is also about controlling where, how, and by whom those stories are shared.

In response, the organization launched ChicanoHollywood.tv, a streaming and media platform featuring original in-house productions ranging from drama to documentary. Some of its titles include The Calipso Show (2024), Dirt City (2021), and Ruben Gutierrez: My Story (2025), among others.

In publishing, Chicano Hollywood Magazine serves as an additional platform dedicated to showcasing original productions while highlighting influential Chicano and Latino voices across entertainment, business, and technology. The magazine has featured notable figures, such as Eva Longoria, Edward James Olmos, Emilio Rivera, and Oscar-nominated makeup artist Ken Diaz.

The organization’s long-term vision includes developing original content, building subscriber-based revenue, securing advertising partnerships, expanding merchandising opportunities, and increasing distribution channels. In many ways, Chicano Hollywood is working toward creating a self-sustaining entertainment network rooted in cultural ownership, creative independence, and community visibility.

3. Developing an Economic Engine for Latino Creatives and Entrepreneurs

Chicano Hollywood also recognizes that the entertainment industry is deeply driven by relationships, networking, and economic collaboration. For that reason, the organization seeks to create opportunities not only for artists but also for entrepreneurs, vendors, producers, and creative professionals working across the entertainment landscape.

Its first public initiatives was their Elevate Conference, where Chicano Hollywood brought together keynote speakers, industry panels, and entertainment-focused businesses to foster spaces for inspiration, collaboration, and professional growth. Over the past three years, the conference has featured notable voices such as Xolo Maridueña (Blue Beetle, Cobra Kai), producer and actress Lisa Vidal (The Division, Being Mary Jane), actress Maria Canals-Barrera (Wizards of Waverly Place, Camp Rock), actors Edward James Olmos (Blade Runner, Miami Vice, Zoot Suit), Luis Guzmán (Wednesday, Narcos), Enrique Castillo (Deja Vu, Blood In Blood Out, The Waltons) and others, helping establish the Chicano Hollywood as an important space for dialogue, visibility, and industry exchange. 

Last year, the organization also launched its first Chicano Hollywood Film Festival, showcasing films, documentaries, short films, and series that were created by Chicano and Latino filmmakers from across the country.

The momentum continues to grow. The next edition, the 2026 Chicano Hollywood Film Festival, is scheduled to take place from July 29 through August 2, 2026 at the The Union On Garey, further expanding the organization’s vision of creating a national platform for Chicano and Latino storytelling, collaboration, and cultural ownership.

This year over 100 features and short film will screened, workshops that include How To Self-Distribute Your Indie Film with Selina Ringal; Stuntman Fighting with Geo Perez and Joe Chacon and even a marketing activations — a Chess Match: Keanu Reeves vs Bianca Mitchell followed by a panel with Reeves and the filmmaking team, followed by a screening of their Mad Woman’s Game feature documentary. The five day festival will culminate on Augut 2nd with the awards ceremony. Tickets can be purchased HERE

This is only the beginning 

Organizations willing to articulate a long-term vision often inspire broader participation. By defining its ambitions publicly, Chicano Hollywood invites filmmakers, entrepreneurs, educators, and audiences to imagine themselves as part of a larger movement.

Ambition invites collaboration, and movements grow when communities see themselves reflected in them. Chicano Hollywood possesses many of the elements necessary to become one of the leading independent Chicano and Latino entertainment networks in the United States, namely education, infrastructure, distribution, community, and perhaps most importantly, a commitment to telling stories authentically.

Earlier generations relied almost exclusively on access to Hollywood’s gatekeepers, today’s creators are increasingly building their own educational institutions, media platforms, festivals, distribution channels, and business networks.

Representation is not just about being seen. It is about people having the power to tell their own stories, in their own voice, with their own faces.

Andrea Nuñez-Gamboa Co-wrote this article

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LéaLA – The Spanish Language Book Fair & Literary Festival, organized by the University of Guadalajara Foundation USA, LéaLA will once again transform LA Plaza de Cultura y Artes into a vibrant gathering place for readers, authors, educators, filmmakers, poets, and families who share a love of literature and the Spanish language.

Now recognized as one of the country’s premier literary and cultural events, LéaLA continues its mission of fostering dialogue through books, critical thought, film, poetry, educational programming, and the exchange of ideas that connect communities across generations and borders.

This year’s theme, “The Stories That Unite Us Speak Spanish,” reflects the festival’s belief that language is more than a means of communication—it is a powerful connection to identity, family, and cultural heritage.

Held in the historic Olvera Street district, the festival brings together voices from the United States, Mexico, and Latin America, offering attendees the opportunity to discover new authors, participate in literary conversations, attend cultural presentations, and enjoy family-friendly programming—all free of charge.

Honoring the Stories We Inherit

One of the most meaningful additions to this year’s festival is “The Voice of Memory,” a community writing contest that invites participants to celebrate the people whose stories helped shape their lives.

Rather than focusing solely on published works, the initiative encourages writers of all ages to share the anecdotes, traditions, life lessons, and cherished memories passed down by grandparents, parents, mentors, and other influential figures.

The contest underscores one of LéaLA’s central messages: some of our most powerful stories are first told at home.

A Cultural Bridge Through Literature

Organized by the University of Guadalajara Foundation USA, with support from the philanthropic legacy of Phyrrha Gladys Grodman, LéaLA has become an important cultural bridge connecting Spanish-speaking communities throughout the Americas.

“Spanish is the language that carries our memories, traditions, and stories,” organizers note. “Through literature and storytelling, we preserve our past while inspiring future generations.”

The festival is also supported by the University of Guadalajara Alumni Association in Los Angeles and numerous public and private institutions committed to promoting literacy, education, and cross-cultural understanding.

Event Information

LéaLA – The Spanish Language Book Fair & Literary Festival

Dates: September 24–27, 2026

Hours: 9:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.

Location: LA Plaza de Cultura y Artes
501 N. Main Street
Los Angeles, CA 90012

Admission: Free and open to the public.

For more information, visit www.lea-la.com.

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Presented by the LA Phil in partnership with Aida Rodriguez and Marissa Herrera De Mi Alma Productions, The Remix promises far more than a traditional comedy show. Hosted by Rodriguez—fresh off the success of her new HBO Max comedy special Fighting Words—the event blends stand-up comedy, iconic music, celebrity storytelling, and audience interaction into an immersive live experience under the stars.

Rodriguez has long been recognized for her fearless comedy, honest storytelling, and ability to connect deeply with audiences by addressing life, family, culture, and social issues with humor and authenticity. The Remix reflects that same spirit by bringing together diverse voices through comedy and music in an atmosphere designed to celebrate community and shared experiences.

Joining Rodriguez is one of today’s most distinctive comedic voices, Frankie Quiñones, whose unforgettable characters and culturally inspired humor have made him a fan favorite. Setting the musical vibe throughout the evening is acclaimed DJ D-Nice, whose signature ability to unite audiences through music transforms the event into a celebration that feels part comedy show, part concert, and part party.

Adding another exciting layer to the evening is a celebrity open mic featuring an impressive lineup of entertainers including Justina Machado (One Day at a Time, and the Broadway play Real Women Have Curves), Ana Ortiz (Imperfect Women), Judy Reyes (ABC’s High Potential & Scrubs), Marlyn Ortiz (Puerto Rican-born dancer, aerialist, choreographer), Sarah Jones (Playwright & Broadway actress), and Grammy Award-winning singer Macy Gray. Their unscripted appearances promise spontaneous moments, personal stories, and plenty of laughs, making every performance unique.

The Ford makes for a magical night under the stars. Nestled in the Hollywood Hills, The Ford has become one of Southern California’s premier outdoor entertainment venues. The historic open-air amphitheater offers an intimate setting with fewer than 1,200 seats, ensuring every audience member enjoys an exceptional view of the stage.  Audiences are welcome to bring their own food an drinks.

The performance is supported in part by the Los Angeles County Department of Arts and Culture, reinforcing a commitment to making high-quality arts programming accessible to audiences throughout Los Angeles County.

Event Information

What: Aida Rodriguez’s The Remix

When: Friday, July 17, 2026

Time: Gates open at 6:30 p.m.; Show begins at 8:00 p.m.

Where: The Ford, Los Angeles

Tickets are available at TheFord.com or by calling 323-850-2000.

Whether you’re a fan of stand-up comedy, live music, or simply looking for an unforgettable summer night under the stars, The Remix promises an evening filled with laughter, music, surprise celebrity appearances, and the kind of shared energy that only live entertainment can deliver.

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By Bel Hernandez Castillo

The beloved comedy ’57 Chevy is getting a fresh new ride. An all-new ensemble adaptation of the hit play will make its debut at Long Beach City College’s Jenni Rivera Performing Arts Center beginning May 21, 2026, bringing to life a heartfelt and hilarious immigrant story that has already captivated audiences across Southern California and the Southwest.

This is a hilarious story of a daydreaming immigrant boy, his stern Mexican father, and their family’s beloved ’57 Chevy.  

Originally performed as a one-man show starring Ric Salinas (of the acclaimed comedy ensemble Culture Clash), ’57 Chevy became a theatrical favorite during its acclaimed run at the Los Angeles Theatre Center before touring throughout the region. Critics praised the production as “a hilarious trek” (Los Angeles Times), “profoundly satisfying” (L.A. Weekly), and “an evocative coming-of-age masterpiece” (Su Teatro News). During the 2020 pandemic shutdown, San Diego Repertory Theatre even adapted the production into a filmed streaming presentation for audiences at home.

Now, playwright and four-time SoCal Emmy Award-winning writer Cris Franco is reimagining the production in a bold new way. Expanding from a solo monologue into a full ensemble piece, the new version features 17 actors portraying more than 30 colorful characters drawn from Franco’s bicultural childhood growing up between Mexico City, South Central Los Angeles, and the San Fernando Valley.

The transformation from solo performance to ensemble production was sparked by Franco’s longtime collaborator and friend, Valerie Dunlap. Believing the story could become even richer through a larger cast, Dunlap encouraged Franco to expand the script so that more performers—and more audiences—could connect with its humor, heart, and cultural authenticity.

“As a boy, the only thing larger than my big familia was my fantasy life fueled by endless hours of watching American television,” Franco shared. “It’s going to be a blast seeing a full cast step into my imagination and tell the crazy-but-true stories about our Chevy that brought our family from Mexico City to our first home in South Central L.A., and later to the San Fernando Valley.”

Shortly after completing the new script, Dunlap shared it with Rick Greaver at Long Beach City College, who introduced the work to Senior Faculty and Professor of Theater Arts Anthony Carreiro. After viewing the filmed version and reading the expanded adaptation, Carreiro immediately recognized the production’s significance for LBCC’s diverse student body.

“One hoped the ensemble version would attract theater groups, high schools, and colleges,” Dunlap explained. “And that’s exactly what happened.”

With nearly 60 percent of LBCC students identifying as Latino, the play offered student actors the rare opportunity to portray culturally authentic Latino characters spanning generations—from Mexican immigrants newly arrived in the U.S. to Chicanos fully immersed in American culture.

“I have directed many productions at the college, and every time I’ve found a play that speaks directly to our community, I’ve seen the joy in students who recognize themselves in the story,” Carreiro said. “That is exactly what is happening with this wonderful play.”

The production will be staged in the Little Theater at LBCC’s new Jenni Rivera Performing Arts Center and directed by acclaimed actor, choreographer, and director Jessica Berón. For Berón, the rehearsal process has been both emotionally resonant and wildly entertaining.

“We’ve had fascinating conversations about how memories feel and even how they sound,” Berón said. “That exploration led us into choreography, physical comedy, stunts, and so much playfulness. There are moments in rehearsal where we laugh so hard it takes time to recover and continue working.”

At its core, ’57 Chevy is a loving portrait of a bilingual, bicultural Mexican-American family navigating the promise and contradictions of the American Dream during the 1950s through the 1970s. Franco fills the play with vivid details from his childhood: plastic-covered living room furniture, strict immigrant parents, inventive Spanglish phrases, crowded family homes, and the unforgettable image of “Gringo Stalker Jesus”—the blue-eyed portrait of Jesus seemingly watching every move inside Latino households.

But beneath the comedy lies a timely and deeply human message.

“What makes America great is its culture of opportunity,” Franco explained. “It allowed immigrants like my father—and so many others—to pursue their dreams through hard work, sacrifice, and hope.”

Berón believes the play’s themes feel especially urgent today. Although the story takes place decades ago, the backdrop includes the Civil Rights Movement, anti-war protests, and ongoing debates surrounding immigration and identity.

“These students recognize the parallels between that era and the world we’re living in now,” Berón noted. “The play highlights the challenges immigrants face while also celebrating what connects us across cultures.”

Excitement around the production has continued building across campus, with students and faculty alike praising the energy surrounding rehearsals. The ensemble cast is led by Abraham Figueroa as Junior, Danny Rangel as Dad, Frania Dueñas as Mom, and Juliana Medina as Young Junior, alongside Alexis Frisch, Alyssa Hilton, Elizabeth Aoshi, Catherine Fuentes, Celvin Reyes, Miguel Yozov, Nicholas Paddit, Nichole Mendez, Noah Cisneros, Olin Archuleta, Paola Ovalle, Quinn Hicks, and Travis Johnson.

As opening night approaches, Franco says the production captures the youthful wonder and optimism that shaped his memories growing up in America.

“Because the story is told through the eyes of a wildly imaginative nine-year-old boy, the play sparkles with innocence, joy, and humor rarely seen onstage today,” Franco said. “I’m proud families can experience together what it was like to be an immigrant at a time when the American Dream still felt possible for hardworking newcomers.” For tickets and show information, visitLBCC ’57 Chevy Show Information

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There are love stories—and then there are Love Struck.

In this daring, funny, and emotionally layered theatrical production, audiences are invited into the intimate world of Rachel and Laura—two women whose passionate romance has evolved into something deeper, more complicated, and ultimately more mundane. One American, the other Cuban, their relationship becomes a prism through which questions of ambition, identity, and belonging are explored with wit and candor.

At the center of it all is Odalys Nanin—a powerhouse in the Latinx and LGBTQ theater communities—who co-writes, co-directs, and stars as Laura. With a career spanning more than two decades, Nanin has built a reputation not just for provocative storytelling, but for consistently delivering award-winning work that resonates across cultures and communities.

A Story of Passion—and Its Aftermath

Rachel (played by Lizette Santiago) and Laura have been together for three years. What began as a whirlwind of “white-hot lust” has settled into a comfortable domestic life in Los Angeles. Their relationship is playful and adventurous—they experiment with role-playing, cosplay, and erotic accessories—but beneath the surface, tensions are building.

Laura’s professional success contrasts with Rachel’s growing insecurities. As Rachel yearns to match her partner’s accomplishments, she also begins to feel the pull of her roots in New York. What emerges is a deeply relatable question: Can love alone sustain a relationship when ambition, identity, and longing pull in different directions?

A Legacy of Theatrical Excellence

Nanin’s body of work reads like a canon of bold, unapologetic storytelling. From Frida: Stroke of Passion to Garbo’s Cuban Lover and The Nun and the Countess, her plays have pushed boundaries while celebrating complex, often underrepresented voices. Her honors include the prestigious Nancy Dean Playwriting Award, and her influence extends beyond the stage as the Founder and Producing Artistic Director of Macha Theatre/Films.

Her continued success is no accident. Nanin has a rare ability to merge sensuality, humor, and cultural identity into narratives that feel both intimate and universal. With Love Struck, she revisits one of her earliest works—first produced in 1997—and reintroduces it to today’s audiences with renewed urgency and relevance.

A Dynamic Creative Team

Joining Nanin is co-director Angela Nicholas, a multi-hyphenate talent who brings experience as an actor, choreographer, playwright, and designer. Her previous collaboration with Nanin on Garbo’s Cuban Lover adds a layer of creative synergy to the production.

Co-writer Marie Barrientos, known for her work on Law & Order and Another World, contributes a nuanced perspective that enriches the script’s emotional depth and authenticity.

Meanwhile, Santiago brings both vulnerability and strength to Rachel—a role that reflects her own award-winning trajectory, including recognition at the Short and Sweet Hollywood Festival and standout performances in La Wija and Whiskey Hollow Road.

A Pioneering Story—Then and Now

When Love Struck first premiered in 1997, it broke ground as a lesbian romantic comedy at a time when such stories were rarely told on stage—let alone with humor, sensuality, and cultural specificity. Today, its revival feels both celebratory and necessary.

This is not just a story about love—it’s about the evolution of love. It’s about what happens after the passion settles, when real life, real dreams, and real differences come into play.

It’s sexy, yes. It’s funny, absolutely. But most importantly, it’s real.

As Nanin continues to build on her award-winning legacy, Love Struck stands as a testament to her enduring voice—one that refuses to be boxed in and continues to evolve with every production.

Written by Odalys Nanin and Marie Barrientos. Directed by Odalys Nanin and Angela Nicholas. Presented by Macha Theatre/Films. A visiting production at Odyssey Theatre Ensemble.

At the Odyssey Theatre, 2055 S. Sepulveda Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90025. Free parking onsite. Admission: $35 in advance, $40 at the door. Box Office: (310) 477-2055

ONLINE TICKETING: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/love-struck-tickets-66479031573

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Now in its 13th year, the annual celebration of Latina-directed cinema will present Merino with the Lupe Ontiveros Award on Opening Night, while Riggen will receive the Maverick Award. Both honors spotlight Latina leaders whose work has reshaped representation, storytelling, and opportunity across the entertainment industry.

Yvette Merino to Receive Lupe Ontiveros Award

Merino, producer at Walt Disney Animation Studios, will be honored for a career defined by artistic excellence and trailblazing achievement. The Lupe Ontiveros Award—named after the late actress who paved the way for generations of Latina performers—recognizes women whose careers demonstrate courage and a sustained commitment to expanding representation in film.

Merino made history as the first Latina to receive the Academy Award for Animated Feature for producing Disney’s Encanto. Over her 25-plus years at Disney Animation, she has served in key production roles on blockbuster titles including Tangled, Wreck-It Ralph, the Oscar-winning Big Hero 6, and Oscar-nominated Moana.

Following Encanto, Merino earned an Emmy Award for producing the short film Once Upon a Studio and served as producer on Moana 2. She is currently producing Zootopia 2. Beyond the screen, Merino was also instrumental in launching Voces@Disney, the studio’s first Latino employee resource group, serving as co-president for two years.

Patricia Riggen to Receive Maverick Award

Riggen will be presented with the Maverick Award, honoring a filmmaker whose body of work has challenged dominant narratives while bringing underrepresented stories to global audiences with authenticity and emotional depth.

Widely regarded as one of America’s leading female directors, Riggen’s feature credits span genres and scale. Her recent action thriller G20 stars Viola Davis, while earlier work includes Sundance breakout feature Under The Same Moon/La Misma Luna and Sony Pictures’ box-office hit Miracles from Heaven starring Jennifer Garner.

Her television directing credits include multiple episodes of the Emmy-winning limited series Dopesick starring Michael Keaton, as well as season one of Tom Clancy’s Jack Ryan.

A graduate of Columbia University School of the Arts, Riggen’s early short film work earned a Student Academy Award, Student Emmy, and Mexican Academy Award. She later directed Lemonade Mouth, which received a Directors Guild of America nomination, and the Chilean mining drama The 33 starring Antonio Banderas and Juliette Binoche—a production that required 30 days of filming underground in active mines.

Originally from Mexico, Riggen remains one of the few women of color to have directed top-grossing studio features in the past decade and continues to mentor emerging Latino filmmakers.

Festival Leadership and Mission

LIFE is led by Festival Directors Iris Almaraz and Cristina Nava, whose shared focus on community engagement, equity, and independent film continues to define the festival’s growth. Nava, a veteran independent producer and cultural organizer, brings decades of experience championing socially conscious storytelling and grassroots arts advocacy. Together, Almaraz and Nava position LIFE as both a platform for exhibition and a space for mentorship, networking, and long-term career development.

Founded thirteen years ago by screenwriter and playwright Josefina López (known for writing the groundbreaking film and Broadway play Real Women Have Curves), the festival was built on the belief that representation matters and that diverse voices strengthen the cinematic landscape.

In addition to screenings, the 2026 edition will feature panels, workshops, and networking sessions connecting emerging Latina directors with industry leaders and resources. LIFE is a fiscally sponsored project of the National Association of Latino Independent Producers (NALIP).

Tickets and full programming details are available at www.LIFEFilmFestLA.com.

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Buena Onda Presents has unveiled the star-studded lineup for the 2026 edition of Festival La Onda, returning May 30–31 to the Napa Valley Expo in the heart of downtown Napa. Headlining this year’s two-day Latin music celebration are Maná, Ivan Cornejo, J Balvin, and Christian Nodal, leading one of the most dynamic Latin festival lineups in the country.

Timed for the weekend following BottleRock Napa Valley, La Onda delivers a premium festival experience spotlighting the hottest Latin artists across genres including Mexican Regional, Reggaeton, Rock, Hip Hop, Latin Pop, Salsa, and more. The 2026 lineup also features Danny Ocean, Los Tucanes de Tijuana, Los Fabulosos Cadillacs, Paulo Londra, La Arrolladora, El Gran Combo de Puerto Rico, Grupo Niche, Molotov, Orishas, Chiquis, Kinky, Ozomatli, and dozens of rising and established acts.

Beyond the music, Festival La Onda offers a fully immersive experience complete with curated Latin cuisine, specialty beverages, shaded lounges, spa activations, a dance club, silent disco, and elevated viewing areas — all infused with Napa Valley’s signature hospitality.

Premium ticket options elevate the weekend even further. VIP guests enjoy access to the VIP Village with premium bars, shaded seating, air-conditioned restrooms, and prime sightlines. El Mirador offers elevated decks with all-inclusive drinks and shaded lounges, while Suite and Platinum Experiences deliver unmatched luxury, including private viewing areas, concierge services, premium dining, and front-row access.

Weekend and single-day tickets are on sale at LaOndaFest.com. General Admission weekend passes start at $218, VIP at $448, El Mirador at $1,287, and Platinum at $3,318, with flexible layaway plans available.

For updates, visit LaOndaFest.com, sign up for text alerts, and follow @LaOndaFest across social platforms.

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Set over one absurd and volatile weekend in Texas, The Circle brings together three generations of the Medina and Mahoney families as unresolved tensions erupt against the backdrop of the 2016 election season. What unfolds is a darkly comic yet deeply human portrait of family, identity, political fracture, and the collective pain that reverberated across the country during one of the most divisive moments in modern American history.

Rivera’s script balances humor and heartbreak, using the intimacy of family dynamics to explore broader questions of accountability, belonging, and healing. Under Jacobs’ direction, the production leans into both the chaos and compassion at the heart of the story, allowing audiences to laugh, wince, and reflect in equal measure.

The cast includes Michael Brainard, Jeanette Godoy, Alma Martinez, Victoria Ratermanis, Lisa Richards, Ava Rivera, Luna Rivera, René Rivera, and Lakin Valdez—an ensemble that spans generations both onstage and off, reinforcing the play’s themes of legacy and inherited trauma.

Adding another layer to the production is original music by Germaine Franco, whose compositions underscore the emotional rhythm of the play and elevate its tragi-comic tone. Franco’s involvement signals the production’s ambition to blend theatrical storytelling with a cinematic musical sensibility.

The four-week run will take place Fridays and Saturdays at 8:00 p.m. and Sundays at 2:00 p.m., January 30 through February 22, 2026, with Pay What You Can preview performances on January 28 and 29. Free parking is available at the theatre.

Opening weekend is designed as both a celebration and a space for community engagement. Friday night will feature a celebrity and VIP opening with a photo booth, while Saturday’s performance will be dedicated to the late producer C. Raul Espinoza. In his honor, Greenway Arts Alliance will make a financial donation to La Plaza de Cultura y Artes, which will also present an art exhibit in the theatre lobby that evening.

On Sunday, February 1, the production extends beyond the stage with a post-show panel discussion titled “Restorative Circles: Indigenous Roots to Today.” Moderated by Fidel Rodriguez of the LA vs. Hate Team, the panel brings together leading voices in restorative justice, healing, and social transformation, including authors, educators, and institutional leaders from UCLA and Loyola Marymount University. The discussion aligns closely with the play’s core themes of reconciliation, accountability, and collective repair.

The Circle is recommended for adults of all ages and older children who experience the play through guided conversation, though parents are advised that the production addresses intense themes.

With its fusion of political reckoning, family drama, humor, and restorative dialogue, The Circle positions itself as more than a theatrical event—it is an invitation to sit in discomfort, listen across divides, and consider what healing might look like after rupture.

For tickets and additional information, visit greenwaycourttheatre.org. TICKETS HERE

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Nosotros and NBCUniversal are signaling a decisive shift in how Latino talent is developed and presented for the industry. With Season 5 of Ya Tú Sabes, the long-running incubator has fully transitioned from a traditional showcase model into a cinematic short-form pipeline—culminating in the crowning of The Comedian as this year’s top winner and positioning the program as a serious launchpad for writers and actors ready for film and television.

What began in 2020 as a challenge from NBCUniversal Launch to rethink the traditional actor showcase has evolved into a fully realized creative pipeline. Initially launched as the Ya Tú Sabes Monologue Slam, the program emphasized original writing and live performance. Over time, it expanded into fully produced stand-alone scenes selected through a competitive process, under a new name, Ya Tú Sabes Monologue Shorts.

Nosotros and NBCUniversal have marked that evolution and raised the bar once again with the explosive fifth season of Ya Tú Sabes, unveiling a bold new evolution of the long-running Latino talent incubator—one that trades the traditional stage showcase for cinematic pieces designed to reflect the professional readiness of Latino talent when given meaningful resources and production value.

“In a year shaped by a difficult national climate for Latinos, support for arts programs like this was far from guaranteed,” said Joel M. Gonzales, President of Nosotros. “We’re deeply grateful to NBCUniversal and the NBC Launch program for standing with us when sponsorships were tight. What Season 5 represents is how much this program has grown over the past five years—and how Latino artists continue to create opportunity, break through, and tell our own stories on our own terms.”

Emerging as Season 5’s creative breakthrough and top winner with judges and audiences alike, is The Comedian, written by stand-up comic José Maestas and powerfully performed by actor Richard Eick. This piece amplifies the Ya Tú Sabes’ core mission: spotlighting Latino writers and actors through original work rooted in universal themes—while steadily expanding the scale and seriousness of the platform.

A sharply observed and emotionally layered piece, The Comedian draws directly from Maestas’ personal experience to explore the duality of life on and off the stage—the persona versus the person. Its resonance was immediate, quickly becoming one of the most talked-about monologue shorts of the season for its depth, honesty, and cinematic execution.

“Across a lineup of powerful shorts, one of the strongest examples was the winner, The Comedian,” said Gonazlez, adding “The writing and performance stood out immediately and reflect the level of depth and readiness that exists in our community when the opportunity is real.”

The Ya Tu Sabes Monolouge Shorts premiered live at the Ricardo Montalbán Theatre this past December, streaming simultaneously on the Nosotros YouTube channel, with Audience Choice voting closing on December 31 declaring writer Cristal González Ávila and actor Mariana Belén as the  Audience Choice winners for Ropa Sucia.

Industry-Level Execution

Season 5’s six monologue shorts were led creatively by Hector Felix, who served as director, editor, and cinematographer, establishing a cohesive visual language across the entire showcase. The project was produced by Gonzales and co-produced by Nosotros Creative Director Juan Munevar, with creative collaboration from Joaquin F. Palma, writer/director of the program’s first three seasons—bridging the initiative’s roots with its cinematic future.

This year’s highly noted celebrity ambassador judges underscored the program’s industry credibility, include Julian Works (The Long Game, Jimmy), actor/producer Nicholas Gonzalez (La Brea, The Good Doctor), producer/director Ben DeJesus (Leguizamo Does America), actor/director Jon Huertas (This Is Us), and Larry Laboe, Executive Director of NewFilmmakers LA. They were joined by NBCUniversal executives and a broad cross-section of casting directors, agents, managers, publicists, and industry professionals.

What’s Next?

Looking ahead, the Season 5 monologue shorts—led by The Comedian and Ropa Sucia—will be submitted as stand-alone short films to film festivals, extending their life well beyond the showcase and expanding visibility for the participating writers and actors across the festival and industry landscape.

Winners will receive cash prizes and sponsored access to key industry leaders, including NBCUniversal executives, casting directors, agencies, and senior writers and producers—solidifying Ya Tú Sabes not just as a showcase, but as a tangible bridge to career advancement.

With Season 5, Nosotros and NBCUniversal have made a clear statement: when Latino artists are given space, resources, and respect, the results are not just promising—they’re cinematic.

The post EXCLUSIVE: Nosotros and NBCUniversal Crown Season 5 ‘Ya Tú Sabes’ Winner as Program Goes Fully Cinematic first appeared on .

The Dreamer Cinderella opens on January 23, 2026 in theaters nationwide, marking a major milestone for this bold indie romance with a studio-scale theatrical rollout. The Dreamer Cinderella marks the highly anticipated theatrical debut of a powerful new indie feature, arriving in cinemas nationwide. The film stars Tara Reid,Anakaren Chablé, Anthony W. Preston, Paul Rodriguez, Victoria Del Rosal, and Paul Johansson, bringing together a cross-generational ensemble of recognizable talent and emerging voices.

The film’s official World Premiere screening is on Wednesday, January 21st. Although it is already sold out, the producers are having local red carpet screening available for the public to attend, adding to the excitement of the opening week celebration. All audiences are invited to a red-carpet, Hollywood style screening at several locations at the following theaters (some cast will be in attendance).

Local red carpet premieres that have tickets available include (CLICK HERE Purchase tickets):

Tuesday, January 20 – Fresno, Maya Cinemas

Thursday, January 22 – Norwalk, Milagro Cinemas

Saturday, January 24 – Chino, Maya Cinemas

Sunday, January 25 – Las Vegas, Maya Cinemas

The producers also invite the public to support The Dreamer Cinderella beginning January 23rd at the following locations: CLICK HERE TO Purchase your ticket

? SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA

• Cinépolis Cinemas Pico Rivera
• Milagro 8 – Norwalk, Los Angeles, CA
• Regency Theatres Van Nuys Plant – Los Angeles, CA
• Regency Commerce 14 – Los Angeles, CA
• Maya Cinemas Chino 8

? CENTRAL CALIFORNIA

• Maya Cinemas Fresno 16
• Maya Cinemas Bakersfield 16
• Maya Cinemas Delano 12

? NORTHERN CALIFORNIA

• Maya Cinemas Pittsburg 16
• Brenden Theatres Modesto 18
• Maya Cinemas Salinas 14

? TEXAS

• City Base Cinemas – San Antonio, TX
• Santikos Casa Blanca – San Antonio, TX
• Premiere LUX Cine 17 IMAX – El Paso, TX
• AMC Gulf Pointe 30 – Houston, TX
• AMC Willowbrook 24 – Houston, TX

? LAS VEGAS

• Maya Cinemas North Las Vegas, NV

? FLORIDA

• AMC Hialeah 12 – Miami–Fort Lauderdale, FL
• AMC Tamiami 14 – Miami–Fort Lauderdale, FL

Written and directed by Dr. Jose-Luis Ruiz, The Dreamer Cinderella centers on Xochitl, a Mexican-American fruit vendor whose life is unexpectedly transformed when she becomes the focal point of a high-stakes bet between two rival film directors. Blending romance, social commentary, and industry satire, the film explores themes of ambition, visibility, and who gets to be seen—and valued—within Hollywood and beyond.

The film’s nationwide theatrical rollout underscores a growing appetite for culturally resonant, audience-driven independent cinema. Members of the media are invited to attend the red-carpet premiere and participate in exclusive interviews with cast and filmmakers, spotlighting the film’s message, cultural impact, and journey from grassroots development to wide theatrical release.

Community is invited to help make this a boxoffice success. Latinos have the power as they are the #1 film going audience.

The post ‘The Dreamer Cinderella’ Rom-Com Opening Week is Here! first appeared on .