Exploring Cultural Clashes in "Tacos La Brooklyn"

Oct 09, 2023

In the exciting world of Los Angeles theater, we often encounter plays that delve into the complex cultural dynamics of this vibrant city. One of the latest additions to the theatrical scene is “Tacos La Brooklyn,” a production by the Latino Theater Co. in collaboration with East West Players. Written by Joel Ulloa and directed by Fidel Gomez, this play offers us an intriguing glimpse into the challenges of life in the City of Los Angeles, where diverse cultures converge in a metropolis filled with interconnected stories.

Jesús “Chuy” Pérez and Lencha (Alejandra Flores)

Chino (Gavin K. Lee)

The Plot of "Tacos La Brooklyn"

“Tacos La Brooklyn” introduces us to the story of Chino, a young and ambitious Korean-American who grew up in a foster family on the east side of Los Angeles. His dream is to turn his successful taco stand, “Chino’s Underground Tacos,” into an established restaurant. However, when Yesenia Tapia, a Mexican-American social media influencer, accuses Chino of cultural appropriation and of attracting a gentrifying community, he must convince the community of his cultural authenticity in a multifaceted and complicated city. This multilingual play raises fascinating questions about cultural appreciation versus cultural appropriation in contemporary, multi-ethnic Los Angeles.

Interview with the Director and Writer

In an exclusive interview with the director of the play, Fidel Gomez, and the writer, Joel Ulloa, we delve into the details behind this captivating production. According to Gomez, “This is a play about Los Angeles. It’s an opportunity to understand the unique history of the east side of the city and the unique history of overlapping cultural communities that come together in this city, which is one of the largest immigrant cities in the country.”

On the other hand, Joel Ulloa describes the play as a story that touches on deep themes and asserts that it is an opportunity to understand the unique stories of the East Side of the city with sometimes unconventional ways in which overlapping cultural communities intertwine.

Tokyo Friends Benjiro, Little Sad and Whisper (Ariel Kayoko Labasan, Paul Dateh, and Sayaka Miyatani)

Don Agapito (Sal López) and Lencha (Alejandra Flores)

A Glance at the Themes of the Play

The gentrification taking place in East Los Angeles has created a palpable divide within the community that calls this area home. As the neighborhood undergoes rapid transformation, tensions rise among long-time residents and newcomers. This complex social phenomenon plays a significant role in the theatrical production of “Tacos La Brooklyn,” where it serves as a backdrop for the multifaceted narrative. The play delves into the intricate dynamics of cultural appropriation and cultural appreciation, using gentrification as a crucial context to explore the challenges and misunderstandings that arise when various cultural communities converge in a rapidly changing urban landscape. “Tacos La Brooklyn” masterfully weaves these themes into the fabric of its story, shedding light on the real-world issues faced by those living in East Los Angeles.

Join the Experience!

You won’t want to miss this unique opportunity to witness “Tacos La Brooklyn.” The play runs from Thursday to Sunday, from September 21st to October 29th, at the “Latino Theatre Company at The Los Angeles Theatre Center.” The cast features renowned actors such as Alejandra Flores, Sal López, Paul Dateh, Esperanza América, Ariel Kayoko Labasan, Gavin K. Lee, Sayaka Miyatani, Zilch Mendoza, Xavi Moreno, and Jesús “Chuy” Pérez.

This theatrical work is a profound reflection on the cultural complexities of Los Angeles and promises to provide a powerful and moving theatrical experience. Don’t miss out! We invite you to immerse yourself in this exciting cultural journey in “Tacos La Brooklyn.”