What would it take for classical theater in the United states to diversify not just its personnel, but also its canon?

Diversifying the Classics promotes the vibrant, Spanish-language theatrical tradition developed on both sides of the Atlantic by playwrights such as Spaniards Lope de Vega and Calderón de la Barca, and Mexicans Ruiz de Alarcón and Sor Juana Inés de la Cruz. The project seeks to foster awareness and appreciation of Hispanic classical theater, expanding the canon to include the heritage of US Latino communities. While our work is based in Los Angeles, we reach theater professionals and audiences across the US and beyond, offering them the materials and tools to explore the rich tradition of the comedia.

Bringing comedia to L.A. audiences and beyond

Since 2014, and under the direction of UCLA Professor Barbara Fuchs, Diversifying the Classics has produced translations, commissioned adaptations, connected academics with practitioners, and hosted performances. 

Diversifying the Classics encompasses multiple initiatives: original translations, available on our website and in a publication series from Juan de la Cuesta; performances, including the LA Escena Festival and staged reading series; adaptation initiatives in Spain, Mexico, and Argentina; and various programs to introduce comedia to students via adaptations, supporting materials, and connections with K–12 and arts educators.

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