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Mentorship program alumni Ashley Busenlener and Joseph Henderson.
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THE OLYMPIA DUKAKIS MENTORSHIP PROGRAM
Mentee Rickey Orr with mentor Elisa Bocanegra
"When I joined HERO Theatre, I entered a supportive community that treasures diversity and social justice. I found a purpose to serve my counterparts through HERO. I also had the privilege to witness great and honest artistry." -Terrence Leung, Hong Kong, USC Class of 2016
Every year HERO Theatre collaborates with universities around the country, providing select students with the opportunity to learn from actors, directors and producers in the field. Our rigorous mentorship program challenges students to step out of their comfort zone and immerse themselves in all aspects of theatre. They receive one-on--one mentorship from our artistic director Elisa Bocanegra and other HERO company members, resulting in an experience tailored to the specific needs of each mentee. Read testimonials from HERO Theatre Mentorship Program participants below!
The HERO Theatre mentorship program was a whirlwind for me in the best possible way! I learned what it takes to put on a show from the first production meeting to the weeks following the show. What I am most grateful for are the lessons that Elisa taught me. She introduced me to the work of Octavio Solis, Nilo Cruz, Quiara Alegría Hudes and many other Latinx playwrights not covered in my own collegiate education. Elisa exposed me to theatre that resonated and brought me closer to my own culture- a theatre I did not know existed. I am eternally grateful to HERO Theatre for giving me the space, opportunities, and attention I needed to become a more empowered version of myself.
Analia Tamariz. USC, Class of '18 
The mentorship program at HERO helped me grow as an artist, producer, and actor. I learned what it takes to run a theater company from the inside with the added bonuses of acting coaching and career mentorship. Through this program, I had hands on experience producing and further received the guidance I needed to inspire me to move to New York to continue my training. I still carry with me the importance of a mission-based theater company in my current NYC theatrical endeavors.
Kat Belinfante USC, Class of 2014 
HERO Theatre's mentorship
program gave me the experience of working in a professional environment. I started by assistant stage managing a project, then got to experience being the lead stage manager. It gave me the opportunity to advocate for diversity and inclusion in theatre projects. I enjoyed working with all of the company members as I learned from them daily. Wendy Hui, USC, Class of 2021 
The mentorship program provided at HERO has allowed me to grow in various ways as a young Latina artist. When I first came in contact with Elisa Bocanegra, I had no experience nor any knowledge at all about the theatre world however, she immediately saw the potential in me and everybody else as upcoming artists. My favorite thing about the program is that Elisa does her best in creating a safe learning environment for everybody. She makes everyone feel comfortable and treats you as if you were one of her own. This program will push you far into meeting all your goals and it will motivate you to become your best self. I am forever grateful to have been a part of this program, they make you feel welcomed and treat you like family. The one-on-one lessons with Elisa go far beyond the material needed, you will additionally take some meaningful life lessons along the road with you.
Paola Delcid Glendale Community College, Class of 2022 
The Olympia Dukakis Mentorship Program was one of the most challenging and rewarding opportunities I have ever had the privilege to be a part of. I along with the other mentees were thrown headfirst into the world of producing with putting on "Flex", all in the midst of an ongoing global pandemic. I was particularly lucky to get to work closely alongside Ashley Busenlener, HERO Theatre's Director of Communications. She taught me the ins and outs of marketing and media for a theatre company, and truly showed me how I can use my skills to work both on and off the stage in the future. Not only that, she became an incredible mentor and friend. Within the program, Elisa's coaching both in life and in my acting pushed me to embrace my power as a woman and an artist, and she taught me that I am capable and worthy of forging my own path in this industry - a lesson I will be forever grateful for. HERO Theatre and the work they do are the pinnacle of what it means to be an artist and reaffirmed for me that creating art to make a change is what I am meant to do.
Jessie Landes, USC, Class of 2023 
This was such a gratifying experience! As a Latina, being part of HERO felt like I was home. I gained so much more insight into what it takes to bring a play to life while learning about the communities around me. I was constantly encouraged to step outside of my comfort zone which allowed me to learn more about myself and build on my confidence, assertiveness, and communication. Furthermore, Elisa always aimed to foster an environment where people could push past their hesitations and put their best selves forward. That, coupled with the lovely connections I made with the Dukakis mentees was incredibly motivating, even when I was going through a tough time. I’ll never forget this experience!
Alyssa Sandoval, Pasadena City College, Class of 2026 
HERO's mentorship program gave me an intimate look into how a nonprofit theatre company runs. Not only did I feel that I was doing valuable work for the company, but in doing so I was able to break out of my comfort zone and exercise new skills. Working with Elisa & the entire HERO team renewed my passion for theatre and my belief in its ability to empower the surrounding communities. HERO Theatre remains a paragon of a social justice theater, actively seeking to give back to the communities it is indebted to, without sacrificing the integrity and quality of its art. I am forever grateful for this home I will always have!
Jamie Gallo, USC, Class of 2024 |
As a Black man pursuing theatre, I am aware of the racism that arises in this field. Being a part of HERO Theatre, my story is different. HERO is a company that celebrates diversity and welcomes new ideas. The mentorship program taught me not only about my craft but about myself. Having the opportunity to be in the presence of some of the best actors, directors and producers in the field inspired me to give back to my community. During my time in the mentorship program, my confidence grew and my awareness was awakened.. Some people’s hero have a cape, but mine is the mentorship program at HERO Theatre.
Joseph M. Henderson Jackson State University, Class of 2018 UCLA, MFA Class of 2022 *Current board member at HERO Theatre 
Through the HERO Mentorship program, I developed strong communication skills, enabling me to work effectively with many other professional artists in Los Angeles. HERO taught me that professionalism and being meticulous are essential to have in my theatre career. Lastly, Elisa Bocanegra propelled me to become a better artist as I spent engaging and personal time with her throughout the mentorship program.
Trey Noh, USC, Class of 2021 
Working with HERO immersed me in the LA theatre community while I was still a student, so that I felt I had some footing when I graduated. The mentorship from Elisa and other company members, as well as the opportunity to witness a professional work environment, was truly a gift. I learned how actors need to be treated, and also how they are expected to conduct themselves.
Michael Sturgis, USC, Class of 2016 
The Olympia Dukakis mentorship became an integral part of my journey as an artist. I received monologue coaching from Elisa which helped me unlock the power to unapologetically take up the space that I need and deserve as an actor. Additionally, she gave me valuable career advice that shaped what I believe is possible for my future. I was also able to meet company members that gave me further guidance. While working on HERO’s staged reading of Flex, I assisted the leadership team in production duties. This included brainstorming marketing strategies and casting the production itself. Before this, I had never been exposed to casting before; even so, the team valued my opinion as if I were a fellow working professional. I am beyond excited to return to HERO Theatre in the spring and work on their production of Tea, where I hope to deepen the connections I made and immerse myself in the creative and collaborative experience at HERO.
Audrey Foreman, USC, Class of 2022 
I had the privilege of collaborating with Elisa Bocanegra throughout my mentorship program and enjoyed every second of it. From the beginning, I was incorporated into the family with welcoming and loving arms. I gained lots of skills and experience while working with “Nuestro Planeta”, a project that I hold very dear in my heart as it allowed me to intertwine my two passions, acting and philanthropy. Working alongside Elisa with the common purpose of raising awareness about environmental justice and the climate crisis that currently impacts Latin American communities has truly been an honor. I wouldn’t change this unique opportunity for the world where I learned so much about the production facet of the industry while sharing a laugh every five seconds.
Thalia Colon Garcia, USC, Class of 2023 
My experience with HERO Theatre has been nothing short of life changing in my early career as a young actor. Since first being introduced to HERO,
Elisa Bocanegra, along with a family of incredible artists and collaborators, have provided me multiple opportunities to be involved in the company’s seasonal productions. They’ve helped train me as an actor through intensive coaching, and introduced me to leaders in the Theatre industry through workshops and guest seminars - including a most recent workshop in collaboration with PlayOn Shakespeare. Throughout the years HERO continues to provide me with lifelong support, foundational training, and professional experience., thus shaping me into being an active listener of the diverse perspectives, experiences, and stories of the Theatre Community. Without this company I would not be the artist I am today, leading with more confidence in myself and my community more than ever before. C.J. Craig, USC, Class of 2023 
When I first heard about the Olympia Dukakis Mentorship Program at HERO Theatre, I was immediately
drawn in by the company's focus on diversity, equity, and inclusion. This piqued my interest, as two of my passions, theatre, and a devotion to diversity came to exist in one place. Upon being accepted as a mentee, I got to experience first hand what it means to be in community, the many working parts, the ups, and the downs of this field. Being a mentee under Elisa and working for her theatre has been a pivotal experience for me, and I am so grateful to her for all that she has taught me. In working with Elisa, my understanding of the theatre and acting have grown. Her radiant and robust personality, and her deep love and care for her mentees made me feel at home, and is what makes this program special. Chaiyia Taylor-Jackson, Pitzer College, Class of 2023 |
Elisa Bocanegra helped develop my talent through a series of acting workshops. She also gave me the opportunity to work with some
really excellent artists. Most importantly, the mentorship program taught me the meaning of hard work. Elisa's approach is one of tough love, where she pushes you into the deep end and expects you to swim - but you're really in the thick of it with her, seeing and doing everything that needs to be done for theatre to happen. The experience was infinitely preferable to being a glorified errand boy for some production company. In short, Elisa will put you to work. It will be hard. But I guarantee you will be a better person and more equipped to succeed because of it. Also she's lovely. Miles Bryant, USC, Class of 2017 
Interning for HERO Theatre was easily one of the best decisions I made during my college career. Elisa is so generous with her information, and goes above and beyond to help nurture young and emerging artists. She held monologue workshops for me and my fellow mentees and gave us one-on-one coaching. As a Producing Fellow, I gained hands-on experience tracking and managing budgets, organizing contracts, and learning all the ins and outs of what it takes to bring a show to life. I cannot recommend this program enough.
Julia Stier, USC, Class of 2018 
HERO'S mentorship program challenged me both as an artist and as an arts administrator and producer, far more than I've ever been challenged before. I would not be where I am right now without Elisa constantly pushing me to succeed and supporting me. When you become a mentee you join the HERO Theatre family, and that is something I will always value.
Ashley Busenlener, USC, Class of 2019 *Current staff member at HERO Theatre 
I am fortunate to have completed the mentorship program at HERO Theatre. Working with this theatre company opened my eyes to the strength of bringing diverse perspectives to the stage. As a part of the program, I was mentored by the Artistic Director of HERO itself, Elisa Bocanegra. I witnessed firsthand what it meant to lead a theatre company and take part in the leadership. One crucial skill that I learned was how to self-start. I took ownership to make things happen. I had never done this before. Elisa instilled confidence in me. Additionally, I truly enjoyed being part of the Future Classics Reading Series and assisting Elisa with HERO's play for the homeless community, "Troy."
Rickey Orr, USC, Class of 2021 Colombia University, MFA/JD Class of 2025 *Current board member at HERO Theatre 
Coming into the program with little knowledge, the HERO theatre program helped me grow professionally by challenging me and pushing me past my comfort zone. Working alongside Elisa made me feel that I was receiving the necessary attention in order to properly evaluate my performance, giving me career advice, and teaching me new techniques. Elisa helped me with multiple aspects of my career and opened my eyes to the possibilities available to me; I will forever value my time with HERO theatre.
Nayeli Ignacio, University of California, Riverside, Class of 2022 
My wish to learn about producing theatre that prioritizes social justice and breaks barriers of accessibility was granted when I found HERO Theatre. As a mentee, I received hands-on experience working on my first professional play, which was written for women living in transitional housing shelters. I had the opportunity to be in producing and community engagement roles with Elisa Bocanegra, who not only provided the space to learn what it takes to be in these production roles, but also trusted me to take on these duties with the knowledge I came in with. Everyone is on an equal level at HERO, and there is such generosity that Elisa has in providing her mentees direct opportunities in their areas of interest with top arts practitioners. You also really become part of a family at HERO
I am incredibly grateful for HERO Theatre’s mentorship program and for the opportunity to learn how to create theatre that is innately a tool for education, healing, and bringing communities together. Peren Yesilyurt, USC, Class of 2023 *Current staff member at HERO Theatre 
Working as a mentee with HERO Theatre, a company run by such passion for community, has grounded me in the beliefs that inspire my artistic pursuits. By working with Elisa I have gained an appreciation for my individuality as an artist, as well as an appreciation for what the art we create communicates. HERO is a company that puts its values first, and in doing such creates beautiful work that anyone would be honored to be apart of. Between working on RISE, HERO's immersive production about gun violence in schools, and the personal acting training I have been lucky to receive from Elisa, HERO has been the best decision of my undergraduate career. I am incredibly lucky to be a part of the HERO family and would recommend to anyone searching for the next step in their artistic pursuits.
Sophie Marantette, USC, Class of 2024 |
Mentorship program alumni with Elisa Bocanegra
SUPPORT OUR PROGRAM
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Our mentorship program is offered free of charge. We rely on your donations to keep the program alive. Please consider making your tax-deductible donation for HERO Theatre's OLYMPIA DUKAKIS MENTORSHIP PROGRAM. Olympia Dukakis was a mentor to our founder Elisa Bocanegra. She inspired Elisa to start HERO Theatre as a way of helping other artists from communities in need.
Donating by check? Please make it payable to HERO Theatre, Inc. and add a note on the memo line saying "mentorship". Checks can be mailed to:
HERO Theatre, PO Box 26275, Los Angeles, CA 90026. |
Our AD Elisa Bocanegra with her mentor Olympia Dukakis
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