Tomás And The Library Lady
Based on the life of Tomás Rivera
Written by José Cruz Gonzáles based on the book by Pat Mora
Directed by Luanne Nunes de Char
- Public Performance: May 16, 2010
- Time: 2pm
- Tickets: $10
- Location: West End Studio Theatre
- 402 Ingalls Street (entrance on Swift Street)
- Call 831.425.WEST (9378) to reserve tickets or BUY NOW
ONE PUBLIC PERFORMANCE
Our story is based on the inspiring true story of a Texas born migrant boy, Tomás Rivera. Unable to read English, Tomás is terrified of school. Not until his introduction to the library and to the compassionate Library Lady does Tomás find refuge. Thanks to a nurturing family and a librarian who takes time to care, a young migrant boy discovers the joys of books, a new language and writing. Spanish words and songs are sprinkled throughout, and the play can be understood by both English and Spanish speaking theatergoers…
Tomás and the Library Lady is José Cruz Gonzáles’s stage adaptation of Pat Mora’s book, based on the story of Tomás Rivera, son of migrant workers. Pursuing a career in literature and academia, ultimately he was named the youngest chancellor of the University of California-Riverside—and the first Hispanic.
Playwright José Cruz Gonzáles is the son of migrant workers and grew up in Watsonville, California. This graduate of Aptos High is an award-winning playwright, director, professor and activist. His plays are celebrated globally. He is currently a professor teaching playwriting at UCLA.
Photos courtesy of Steve DiBartolomeo