Americano Brings AZ Theater to NYC

The musical ¡Americano! is based on the true story of Arizonan Tony Valdovinos, and his journey of self discovery as a “Dreamer”. His story is one that resonates with many American families. The struggles of those immigrating to the United States, the roadblocks they have to navigate, the discrimination they endure, and the obstacles they overcome to make their American Dream come true. After a record-breaking run at Phoenix Theatre Company, ¡Americano! has brought its inspiring story and nearly all-Latino cast to its off-Broadway premiere in New York City through June 19.

This last month, Cultural Coalition Founders Carmen and Zarco Guerrero traveled to see ¡Americano! not only to support our local theatre and the Latinx stories being told, but also because one of the Guerrero family was part of the musical! Their eldest son, Quetzal Guerrero, also known professionally as QVLN, is part of the live orchestra with music arranged by Arizona favorite Sergio Mendoza of Orkesta Mendoza.

We had a chance to interview Carmen, Zarco, and Quetzal about their experience and what this means to them not only as artists, but as advocates for immigrant rights and cultural representation in the arts.

Cultural Coalition: You two started your arts and culture careers in Phoenix as musicians, and putting on plays that explored the Chicano experience, how does this feel to see Quetzal as a musician for an off-Broadway play tackling some of the same topics?

Zarco: As parents, we can only teach our children what we know. We are artists and musicians and to see our kids excel in the arts is a dream and our greatest joys.It gives us the satisfaction of knowing our legacy lives on!

Carmen: As a musician and a mother, I couldn’t be any prouder! Our son has excelled in music since a little boy playing the violin. Now, he is a world class musician that is privileged to perform on the world’s best stages! From Sydney to New York, Arizona and L.A., Europe and Asia.  

Cultural Coalition: How did you get involved with the Americano production?

Quetzal: I got involved in the Americano project through the band Orkesta Mendoza. My good friend Sergio Mendoza is the musical arranger for Americano and the band leader of Orkesta Mendoza. He was the one who asked me to be a part of the band for the musical.

Cultural Coalition: Have you seen Americanos? What were your impressions?

Zarco: Yes we saw the play many times. We feel the play reflects our ideas, standards and goals. The play is very relevant to today’s young immigrants. It is a universal story of hope and resiliency!

Carmen: I saw it many times in Phoenix during their run in February 2020. I was always in love with the music, the uplifting message, the universal story, the strength and super vivacious cast! It deserves to be seen by millions!

Cultural Coalition: What has been the most rewarding thing about this experience?

Quetzal: The most rewarding thing about the experience overall  has been the amazing opportunity to work with so many incredibly talented people. It’s been so inspiring playing alongside the stellar cast and crew.

Cultural Coalition: What similarities do you see between the topics being discussed in Americanos vs the plays you two were producing at the beginning of your careers?

Zarco: The topic of “migration” has always been a big issue for us as artists. We are advocates for positive social change and justice. In this sense, we are very similar.

Carmen: The question of identity and dreams for a better world. The positive story that yes we can! Affirmation of our Chicanismo and Americanismo. Art at its best! 

Cultural Coalition: What are you looking forward to most? Either with this Broadway experience? Or for future Broadway productions?

Quetzal: Being a part of this Broadway production has taught me a lot about the inner workings of the business. I will now be able to integrate a lot of what I’ve learned into my latest Theater project that I’m composing music for.

For more information on the musical and its journey to Broadway, visit the website at: americanothemusical.com