MEET LIZA A. RIOS (CARMEN)

What does this story mean to you/Do you have any personal connection to the story or characters?

As I have explored the themes and character of Carmen, at times I have seen my life flashing before me, recalling the very strong and opinionated women who raised me. It is both an honor and privilege to be able to share these real histories of Latina women and the multi layered experiences they have endured. I am a first generation, Latina, – American, who had a fierce grandmother who left Puerto Rico and her children temporarily in order to start a life in New York working as a seamstress. My Grandma Rios was like a second mother to me, we were very close. In fact, my sister and I were the only ones of her 15 grandchildren who could speak Spanish. We were able to hear her stories and the stories of her mother and other tales of older generations. My time spent with my grandmother is one of the greatest gifts, and I hope in someway, that this play honors her and her sacrifice which served to benefit future generations, meaning me, and all of our future offspring.

Are you like your character? If so, why? If not, is there another character in the show you relate to?

Well, like Carmen, I certainly enjoy cooking and showing love with food, so I hope that my dishes taste a lot better than her green mole! There are times that I stand firm in my beliefs, and have shared strong opinions, depending on the topic or situation. However, unlike Carmen, I would never shame or degrade my daughter or nieces or any other human beings regarding their bodies. I can relate to Ana as far as being a first generation college student and breaking away from traditions in my family in the areas of religion and political affiliation.
I certainly have had my Rosalie moments of wanting to be a size 2, and struggling with body image. In general, from the time we are little girls, in the Latina culture , we are reminded to have as a high-priority the perfect body. I have always struggled with this and I admire the younger generations who do a better job at self-love and acceptance, prioritizing character, and integrity over the exterior.

Why do you feel audiences will enjoy this show?

Audiences will enjoy the story because we express the stories with a mix of emotions, including humor and drama. These five women are real, and the audience gets a chance to witness their vulnerability – both as the characters we are playing and as the actresses on stage, raw with, our true selves. Although the story was originally written in 1990, the sense of urgency when it comes to immigration and the current heated political climate, is very relevant. Living in Southern California, especially, we are telling the stories of our neighbors, those who are in our community and who play important roles in our society. We need to do better in extending grace, compassion, and elevated humanity.

What’s your experience been like, so far, working on this show?

I’m so very grateful for the safe space our Director Guadalupe has created for us. In telling our true stories, we have developed our individual characters often times making discoveries and realizations, adding to the depth of the messages and moments we are wanting to express. I have definitely enjoyed cultivating and putting this character of Carmen together, contemplating moments, actions, and motivations. It’s also been fun creating her look which reminds me of some of those Latina women I mentioned who were my elders. From a technical standpoint,
It’s been over 10 years since I have been in a straight play and not a musical so this, play & the amount of dialogue has definitely been a challenge, but one that I wholeheartedly embrace and enjoy. I get to share the stage with 4 other women who share the same passion for the story and the truth from which it came from.

What do you hope audiences will take away after watching the show?

I hope that our audiences will have an elevated & newfound respect for the strength and sacrifice Latina women have given for decades. Think before speaking and refrain from shaming or criticizing someone for their looks. Instead, encourage and offer support and love with words and thoughtful actions. Aim to be kind and show empathy, and be grateful if you happen to be born on the north side of the border. Some of us Are here out of luck or blood sweat tears sacrificed by our ancestors. See the good in people and don’t assume that your story or another person’s story are identical. Celebrate diversity and use your privilege to empower others.