TEATRO BASICS

Suitable for all age levels and experiences

The signature approach to making theatre with anyone and everyone through a “no experience required” lens. Participants will engage in a variety of introductory “on your feet” teatro games and group activities designed to unlock everyone’s expressive potential. Adding to the spirit of play are live musicians! 

Ideal for one visit lasting 1-3 hours 

INTRODUCTION TO MAKING AN ACTO

Suitable for all age levels and experiences

In addition to introductory teatro games, participants will learn about the Chicano Theater form of the “acto” (short political skit). This short form of illuminates a social/political problem and is meant to inspire people to take action. Originally created as way to help organize and educate farmworkers, this short form is an effective tool to this day. Participants will get a chance to directly apply the short form to topics of their choosing.   

Ideal for one visit lasting 1.5 – 3 hours or multiple sessions to fully develop the acto

ALSO OFFERED VIRTUALLY! TO INQUIRE, SEE THE BOTTOM OF THIS PAGE 

INTRODUCTION TO THE TEATRO FORMS

Suitable for all age levels and experiences

In addition to introductory teatro games, participants will get a survey exploration on each of the Four Chicano Theater Forms: The Acto (short political skit), The Mito (Storytelling through Mythology), The Corrido (Storytelling through narrative ballads and music) and The Historia (Performed History Lessons). 

Ideal for one visit lasting 1.5 – 3 hours or multiple sessions to fully develop the forms.

ALSO OFFERED VIRTUALLY! TO INQUIRE, SEE THE BOTTOM OF THIS PAGE 

INTERACTIVE PRESENTATIONS AND/OR ACTO PERFORMANCES

Suitable for all age levels and experiences

In order to serve larger groups, we offer an assembly format that covers the beginnings of El Teatro Campesino by way of an interactive performance — where audience members get to take on the roles of key players in the story of how El Teatro Campesino came to be. The assembly includes practical lessons and application of either the acto or multiple Teatro Forms like The Corrido, The Mito, and Historia. If available, an acto performance by ETC may also be featured as part of the assembly.

Assembly length is flexible anywhere from 45 minutes to an hour and a half.

Designed for more in depth lessons to serve schools and community groups over a period of time, our Teaching Artists offer intensive lessons and projects through our residencies and longer running programs. These programs combine elements of all our offerings and work towards a specific goal (i.e. a performance, completed art projects, etc.) Programs can also be designed to fit specific needs. In school, after school and summer sessions may be available

MASK OR PUPPET MAKING 

Suitable for all age levels and experiences

A step-by-step hands on workshop using raw materials and paper maché to create masks or puppets (hand or rod & stick). Will require multiple sessions.

ARTISTS IN SCHOOLS: THE CONQUEST OF MEXICO

Aligns to the 7th Grade History/Social Studies Standard

12 Visual Art Based Lessons aligned to the California 7th grade History/Social Studies unit on Mexico. Lessons center around Aztec civilization and culture including a Presentation on pre-columbian music instruments, codex making and puppet making. ETC Puppet Show performance of “La Conquista de Mexico” may also be available.

CURRENT CAPACITIES CAN ONLY SUPPORT CLASSES IN AND AROUND SAN BENITO COUNTY

TEATRO DE NOSOTROS

Two Part Program putting youth creativity at the forefront

With a minimum of three weeks, students of various grade levels can experience a unique visual and performing arts program. Activities include: story development, theatrical training, prop making, all leading up to rehearsals and performance.

CURRENTLY RUNNING IN WATSONVILLE OVER THE SUMMER

VISIT THE ETC PLAYHOUSE

Can be tailored to various grade levels

ETC’s Playhouse in San Juan Bautista, CA has been the home of this world-renowned theater company since 1981. Converted from an old packing shed, the playhouse contains museum exhibits displaying rare memorabilia from the company’s 60 year history. Tour the facility and check out ETC merchandise not currently available anywhere else. Interactive presentations may also be scheduled while visiting. 

“VALLEY OF THE HEART” 4th-8th GRADE CURRICULUM

Curriculum guide and radio drama podcast

Designed for Grades 4–8, our engaging guide invites students to explore the story of “Valley of the Heart” by Luis Valdez—a sweeping California epic that examines the tension between America’s ideals and its actions. Written by one of the masters of contemporary theater, the artistic material offers rich opportunities for historical inquiry, cultural reflection, and meaningful classroom discussion.

TEATRO CAMP

Spring Theater Camp for youth in San Juan Bautista

Youth ages 8-15 are invited to join us and put on a mini performance at ETC’s Annual Teatro Family Day Event every April. No prior experience necessary. Teatro Camp is held afterschool at the ETC Playhouse in San Juan Bautista for two weeks. Interested families can send an inquiry to christy@elteatrocampesino.com