Providing programs for young artists and audiences has always been central to the mission of GALA Hispanic Theatre.

Founders Hugo and Rebecca Medrano met while performing children’s theater in Washington, DC and as Hugo always attests, “kids are your most honest audience.” As GALA grew out of their combined experiences with youth and young audiences, it continued to be guided by Hugo’s philosophy that “if you engage a young person’s imagination early on, it changes their lives forever.”

PASO NUEVO , GALA’s dramatic arts education and performance program for at-risk youth ages 15-20, is among the few in Washington that address the need for youth to have a safe, creative environment in which to develop language and communication skills that can enhance their academic performance, strengthen cultural identity, develop increased academic and vocational skill sets, and promote literacy in both English and Spanish.

GALA introduces Hispanic dramaturgy, styles, and issues to Latino and non-Latino middle and high school youth through its STUDENT MATINEE PROGRAM. Each season, GALA presents special student matinees of classical Spanish works followed by discussions with students, teachers, and company members. For most high school students, this is their first experience with live Spanish language theater. The program reaches hundreds of youth and educators. GALA also produces and distributes an educational supplement that provides a wealth of bilingual information, education and reading lists intended to augment the traditional school curriculum that includes little art or literature of Hispanic origin. Since the majority of students in these inner-city schools are Latino, the educational material provided by GALA increases the students’ awareness of their own history and culture. The supplement also enhances cross-cultural communication and understanding between Latino and non-Latino students and educators.  For School Matinee schedules, please call (202) 234-7174. GALA will consider requests to schedule additional matinee performances for school groups. 

In partnership with other arts groups and organizations, such as the Washington Performing Arts Society and the Smithsonian Institution, GALA offers free programs for young audiences and families that introduce them to Latino traditions and cultures.

GALA presents its traditional production for children and families, FIESTA DE LOS REYES MAGOS, which showcases a number of local folk and traditional Latino talents in English and Spanish. This free production attracts hundreds of community children and families each year and is the only event that connects Latinos to this age-old holiday tradition.