The original production which began in Los Angeles, subsequently moved to Broadway, eventually being made into a film starring Edward James Olmos as "El Pachuco."
Zoot Suit presents a fictionalized version of the Sleepy Lagoon murder trial, where a group of young Mexican-Americans were charged with murder, resulting in the racially fueled Zoot Suit Riots throughout Los Angeles. A benchmark play written and directed by Luis Valdez, it marked a breakthrough in Latino theatre and themes.
Chicano playwright Luis Valdez masterfully uses the Sleepy Lagoon murder case to examine the Chicano Zoot Suit Culture of the 40’s. Passionate and provocative, Zoot Suit pulses with the beat of big band music and traditional Latin songs.
Music Direction by Daniel Valdez.
Recorded before a live audience at the Skirball Cultural Center, Los Angeles in July of 2001.
Directed by Luis Valdez
Marco Rodriguez as El Pachuco
Kinan Valdez as Henry Reyna
Daniel Valdez as Enrique Reyna
Alma Martinez as Dolores Reyna
Primavera Flor-Valdez as Lupe Reyna
Lakin Valdez as Rudy Reyna/Sergeant Smith/Bailiff/Bosun’s Mate
Gregory Itzin as George Shearer
Xochiquetzal Candelaria as Alice Bloomfield
Estrella Esparza as Della Barrios
Ruben C. Gonzalez as Smiley Torres/Rafas/Swabie
Raul Cardona as Joey Castro/Marine
Daniel Chacón as Tommy Roberts/Cub Reporter/Sailor
Katrina Valdez as Bertha Villareal/Newsboy
Seth Millwood as Lt. Edwards/Guard/Shore Patrol
Spencer Garrett as The Press
Al Ruscio as Judge F.W. Charles
