Lexington Children’s Theatre Receives $10,000 Grant for New Show, “la ofrenda”

Thanks in part to a $10,000 grant from the National Endowment for the Arts, the Lexington Children’s Theatre will premiere a bilingual production of “la ofrenda” (the offering) in September on its Main Stage and then embark on a state-wide tour of the show in the fall.

“We are delighted to have the NEA’s support for our fall touring production of ‘la ofrenda,’’ LCT’s Producing Director Larry Snipes said.

“This remarkable play, with its themes of love, family, cultural heritage and intergenerational acceptance, is perhaps one of the timeliest offerings we can share with our audience.”

Written by Jose Casas, “la ofrenda,” tells the story of Alex Smith, a young boy who lost his parents in the tragedy of 9/11. Alex is then forced to move to Los Angeles to live with his only living relative, his grandmother: a strong-willed Chicana named Marta Torres.

Alex must deal with starting a life in a strange new place and with being immersed in a culture he knows little about.

Marta must come to terms with her resentment toward her daughter for not teaching her grandson about her culture. As the rift between the grandson and grandmother widens, tensions reach a boiling point.

Ultimately, Alex and Marta acknowledge that their journey as a family is just beginning. It is a journey with no easy answers, but they are both willing to try and find their way – together.

“We know our audience will be as deeply moved as we were by Alex and Marta’s story,” Snipes said.

Acting NEA Chairman Mary Anne Carter has approved more than $80 million in grants thus far, saying these awards are a testament to the country’s artistic richness and diversity.

“Organizations like the Lexington Children’s Theatre are giving people in their community the opportunity to learn, create and be inspired,” she said.