About the Show
This genre-defying historical drama explores the complex journey of California’s last Mexican governor, Pío Pico, whose pursuit of the American Dream forces him to sacrifice his family, identity, and integrity while pursuing a real estate empire during the Golden Era of 19th Century Manifest Destiny. To frame Pio's life, the play takes audiences on a journey between California’s past and a dystopian water-world future, confronting the costs of ambition, race, and privilege in America. California Story was a finalist for the 2024 Ojai Playwrights Conference.
Under the direction of Michael Alvarez, the production features standout performances by Peter Mendoza (Pio / Mexican Salesman 1), Davi Santos (Andres / Mexican Salesman 2), Camila Arteche (Isadora / Mexican Wife), Sawyer Shine (John Forster / White Man), Morgan Danielle Day, Gracie Cartier and Aphrodite Armstrong as the Legendary Children.
