The seventh Chicago International Latino Theater Festival, Destinos, began this week with a diverse lineup of performances from national, international, and local artists to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month. Organized by the Chicago Latino Theater Alliance, the festival includes 21 productions, including four world premieres, to be showcased at various venues across the city until November 17.
Among the many thought-provoking productions at Destinos, two plays stand out for their exploration of immigrant experiences. One of them is “Elvira,” a play that tells the true story of Elvira Arellano, a single mother and immigration activist who sought sanctuary in a Chicago church to avoid deportation to Mexico. The play, written by Raúl Dorantes and directed by Mark Litwicki, sheds light on Elvira’s journey and the challenges she faced.
Before becoming an advocate for immigrant rights, Elvira worked as an airplane cleaner at O’Hare International Airport. However, after losing her job due to post-9/11 immigration regulations, she found herself in a struggle with the U.S. immigration system. The play captures her resilience and determination to protect her young son while fighting for justice and a better future.
Another captivating production at Destinos is “Latin Standards,” a one-woman show by comedian Margo Gomez that explores her complex relationship with her Cuban father and her experiences in the LGBTQ+ community. Through humor and heartfelt storytelling, Gomez delves into her family history, her father’s legacy as a performer, and her own journey of self-discovery.
As Gomez reflects on her upbringing in Washington Heights and her experiences in San Francisco’s gay nightlife scene, she uncovers the ties that bind her to her heritage and identity. The play also pays homage to Esta Noche, a historic Latino gay bar that served as a sanctuary for many in the LGBTQ+ community.
Both “Elvira” and “Latin Standards” offer audiences a glimpse into the immigrant experience, the intersection of family and culture, and the resilience of individuals facing adversity. Through the power of theater, these productions invite viewers to empathize with characters whose stories resonate with universal themes of love, loss, and belonging.
In a time where immigration issues continue to be at the forefront of national discourse, plays like “Elvira” and “Latin Standards” serve as poignant reminders of the human stories behind the headlines. By sharing these narratives on stage, artists like Raúl Dorantes and Margo Gomez hope to foster understanding, compassion, and dialogue around the immigrant experience and the diverse tapestry of American identity.
