Our Mission

PictureOlympia Dukakis & Elisa Bocanegra
HERO Theatre presents classical plays and new plays inspired by the classics, re-imagining great works to tell stories that reflect America today. We use an ensemble of actors representing the cultural and socio-economic diversity
in America. 

HERO believes that honoring an artist's origin and experiences makes for truthful, unique and memorable theater. We believe in using art for social justice. Our mission is to build bridges between cultures by way of the classics. Productions are planned for both Los Angeles and New York. 

Our History

The inspiration for HERO Theatre came about backstage in the wings of the Laura Pels Theatre, during the Roundabout Theatre Company's production of "The Milk Train Doesn't Stop Here Anymore" in 2011. The show's star Olympia Dukakis turned to cast-mate Elisa Bocanegra and asked "why do you look so sad all the time"?  Bocanegra confided in Dukakis that she was saddened by the lack of diversity in theatre, still to this day.  She was also disappointed that many of her friends, of all cultural backgrounds, who wanted to do more classics were up against a wall because they didn't have the resources to go to graduate school. "I just wish we had a place where we can all work together. Actors of all backgrounds and training."  Dukakis replied, "Elisa it's time for you to hustle and start your own company. A place where you can grow and help others like you."  On August 8 2011, HERO Theatre launched with a benefit reading of Chekhov's "Three Sisters" directed by Obie-award winner Lisa Peterson. Olympia Dukakis hosted the evening. 

ARTISTS

Artists that have worked with HERO include William H. Macy, Olympia Dukakis, Joe Manganiello, Austin Pendleton, Lisa Peterson, Stephanie Beatriz, Lynn Cohen, Brent Jennings, John Frank Levey, Ruth Maleczech, Omar Metwally, Arian Moayed, Ric Salinas and Jeremy Shamos. Some of the most beloved playwrights in America have contributed their work to HERO including Quiara Alegria Hudes, Colman Domingo, Larry Charles, Jennifer Haley, Annie Weisman, Migdalia Cruz and Candido Tirado. Check out our "I believe in Hero Theatre" video with our celebrity friends in support of HERO!
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William H. Macy
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John Frank Levey & Joe Manganiello
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Brent Jennings

 LEADERSHIP

Our Producing Artistic Director, Elisa Bocanegra founded HERO Theatre in August 2011 with the help of her colleague and mentor, Academy Award-winner Olympia Dukakis. Elisa was the first recipient of the new Paul Nicholson Arts Management Fellowship for 2015 at the Oregon Shakespeare Festival. Seven seasons ago, Elisa was a member of Oregon Shakespeare Festival's acting company. As an actor she has also performed at many theatres including The Roundabout Theatre Company in New York, The Mark Taper Forum/Center Theatre Group, Cornerstone Theater Company, Huntington Theatre, Hartford Stage and the Williamstown Theatre Festival. Her film credits include Sundance Film Festival Winner, "Girlfight" starring Michelle Rodriguez and directed by Karyn Kusama.