Overview

The Austin Latinx New Play Festival is a nationally recognized platform for new work by Latinx playwrights. Held annually in collaboration with Teatro Vivo and ScriptWorks, the festival champions diverse storytelling, supports emerging and established writers, and offers audiences fresh perspectives on Latinx identity and experience.

My Role

As Festival Curator and Producer from 2013–2018, I oversaw all artistic and operational aspects of the festival. This included placing the call for scripts, organizing the review process, coordinating with ScriptWorks on dramaturgical support, curating the final lineup, hiring directors, managing artist communication, and leading casting calls. I also handled media relations and served as a key liaison with Teatro Vivo’s leadership team.

Creative Strategy

The goal was to build a space where new Latinx voices could thrive — balancing experimentation with rigor. I prioritized stories that reflected the range of Latinx experience in form, style, and theme. I worked closely with each playwright to align the development process with their artistic intent while also shaping programming that aligned with Teatro Vivo’s mission and Austin’s evolving arts audience.

Outcome

Over my five-year tenure, the festival consistently sold out performances and gained recognition as a national platform for Latinx play development. Many featured plays went on to receive full productions or further development. The festival also helped Teatro Vivo deepen its role as a vital incubator for underrepresented voices and innovative work.