Mariachi was always a male-dominated form of music, performed by men in rural areas of Mexico. These were traveling musicians who generally performed at functions where alcohol was consumed, which made it an environment that was not acceptable for women.
That all changed in the late 1980s when Mariachi Las Perlitas, regarded as the first female mariachi group, burst onto the scene in Guadalajara. Around the same time, Linda Ronstadt released an album of traditional mariachi music entitled “Canciones de mi Padre.” Women had finally discovered this beautiful form of music for themselves, singing traditional songs of rural life and love for the land and their native country.
Director James Vásquez explores this slice of history as the Two River Theater presents “American Mariachi,” a story by José Cruz González (“If by Chance,” “The Extraordinary Ms. ZLuna Captures the World”), which depicts two women who decide to start their own mariachi band. Performances of this comedy run from Sept. 28 to Oct. 20.
“It is a story about community and family, traditions both old and new, and a celebration of the most glorious music ever played,” said Vásquez.
Vásquez, who directed last year’s hit musical “Hair” at Two River Theater, is happy to return with a story that is so close to his heart.
“Women were breaking barriers and finding their voices in the ’70s,” he said. “This is a beautiful story about love, family and tradition.”
Vásquez received the Craig Noel Award for Outstanding Direction of a Musical for “In the Heights” at Moonlight Stage Productions and for “Sweeney Todd” at Cygnet Theatre Company. He said he loves being able to tell stories for a living.
“I grew up in a house full of imagination,” he said. “We were encouraged to pretend and create. As an adult, the fact that I get to play and tell stories is not only joyful, it’s a gift and an honor at the same time.”
The story, set in the 1970s, depicts cousins Lucha and Boli, who have a plan to start an all-girl mariachi band. They aren’t going to be deterred just because they can’t play instruments, they have no costumes and their families disapprove. They are on a mission to find some bandmates and make their mariachi dreams come true.
“Music, family and joy, that’s what it’s all about,” said Justin Waldman, Two River Theater artistic director. “What José and James have built with ‘American Mariachi’ is an utter delight. As the guitarron strums, the trumpet blares and the band comes together, you’ll be smiling from ear to ear.”
As he did with “Hair,” Vásquez has assembled a large cast for “American Mariachi” and when they’re all on stage, it will be quite a sight to see.
“Mariachi instruments are not small,” said Vásquez. “The music will be invigorating and alive. It will be like a party on the stage.”
That cast includes many friends and trusted actors that Vásquez has worked with in the past.
“One of the benefits of working all over the country and developing this show is the roster of actors under my belt,” he said. “I was able to handpick this cast.”
The cast includes Jordan Arredondo (“Sanctuary City,” “In the Heights”), Maggie Bofill (“Bai Pas,” “The Trial of Judas Iscariot”), Crissy Guerrero (“American Mariachi,” “State Fair”), Addie Morales (“Les Misérables” Broadway National Tour), Marina Pires (“How to Dance in Ohio,” “On Your Feet!” Broadway National Tours), Bobby Plasencia (“Orchid Receipt Service,” “Julius Caesar”), Marta Rymer (“Once” National Tour), Martín Solá (“How to Dance in Ohio,” “On Your Feet!”), Heather Velazquez (“American Mariachi,” “Pipeline”) and Erika Zade (“Rent,” “The Voice.”)
The band includes Christopher Casado (trumpet), Edgar Jamil Mata (guitarron), Emilio Hernandez (violin) and Jared Martinez (vihuela). The creative team includes music director Alvaro Paulino Jr., scenic designer Diggle, costume designer Christopher Vergara, lighting designer Rui Rita and sound designer Fitz Patton.
Tickets for American Mariachi are $45-80 and are available at 732-345-1400 or tworivertheater.org.
In conjunction with this production, the Two River Theater will offer several free events. “In the Know with Justin Waldman” will take place at 5:30 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 2. Waldman will lead a discussion with Vásquez about his career and “American Mariachi.” At 7 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 13, there will be a celebration of the Latine music scene in Monmouth County, presented along with the Lakehouse Music Academy. Both events are free, but registration is required.
On Friday, Oct. 18 at 5:30 p.m., Two River Theater and Lady Celestina present “Las Amigas Fabulosa Drag Night,” a night of drag artistry featuring performances by Latine drag queens Nikky Sky Blake, Catrina Lovelace and host Kimmy Sumony. This event is $20 and tickets to the 8 p.m. performance of “American Mariachi” that follows are available for purchase.
There will be a fragrance-free performance at 3 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 5; a sensory inclusive performance at 7:30 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 6; free childcare service and discounted tickets for caregivers at the 3 p.m. show Saturday, Oct.12; and an audio described and open captioned performance at 3 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 19.