Hidden Strawberries
A new play centered on the overlooked impacts of wildfires on society, “Hidden Strawberries,” by Ali Namayandeh, is debuting Oct. 16 to 19 at 7 p.m. at Stanford Live Bing Studio. The play integrates scientific research on the toxicity of California wildfire smoke with their social and health impacts, particularly on the labor force, leveraging the power of community engagement and theater. The play is inspired by California farmworkers, who are disproportionately affected by the state's worsening wildfires. It delves into the broad impacts of California wildfires, intersecting with issues of migration, environmental degradation, and personal identity, all seen through the eyes of Valentina, a young woman from Mexico. The story follows Valentina as she embarks on a search for her missing brother, Rodrigo, who disappeared while trying to cross the U.S. border.
Cast:
Luna Lau, Valentina
Miguel Wacher, Sin Cara
Stephanie Barajas, Maria
Karen Law, Nia Patton, Don Hardwick, and Charlie Mintz, Scott Fendorf, Voice actors
Creative:
Ali Namayandeh, Playwright and director
Christian Mejia, Lighting designer
Alicia Crawford, Sound designer
Stephanie Barajas, Costume designer
Alix Fisher, Set designer
Sam Cortez, Choreographer
Frank Chen, Photographer
Production team:
Shagayeg Navabpour, Executive producer
Jonathon Howell, Technical director
Lana Tleimat, Public relations
Christy Hartman, Stage Manager
Hanh Minh Chu, Assistant Stage Manager
Raphael Kim, Assistant Stage Manager
Miguel Wacher, Media director
