HERO Theatre’s Mission: HERO Theatre is a community-based company that uses art to model and bring about social and environmental justice. They invite audiences to envision and experience America as they do. HERO examines classical and contemporary works, ensuring that equity, diversity, and inclusion remain in the forefront.

Purpose: HERO Theatre was founded in 2011 by Artistic Director Elisa Bocanegra, a Puerto Rican artist. As one of the first Latinas to perform at a major regional theater, Bocanegra has survived tremendous racism and has been saddened and frustrated by the lack of equity and inclusion in American theatre. After an inspiring conversation with fellow cast-mate, Olympia Dukakis—who encouraged Bocanegra to start her own company—Bocanegra, who comes from humble beginnings, started HERO Theatre to elevate artists facing similar marginalization, and she has created a flourishing company. HERO Theatre launched in August 2011 with a benefit reading of Chekhov’s THREE SISTERS featuring a cast of actors who are Black, Indigenous and people of color. Dukakis hosted the event and led the company’s Advisory Board until her recent passing. HERO’s 2021-22 season is dedicated to her, and HERO’s mentorship program is named for her. HERO Theatre is known for being a safe place for artists who are Black, Indigenous and people of color to practice their craft, and HERO draws audiences of color from across Los Angeles. HERO’s programming seeks to elevate artists from underrepresented communities and is particularly interested in work that creates dialogue between disparate communities of color.