Don Garcia is thrilled to have his plays performed at the National Hispanic Cultural Center.
For the first time, the center is aiding in the Words Afire festival.
This is the second year Garcia has participated in the festival.
"It's great for people like myself who really didn't know if they had it in them to write stories," he said. "If they're accepted, boy - to me, it was sure a boost to the old ego."
For Garcia, writing plays is a way to show a very personal part of his history and upbringing, a part that he really doesn't get a chance to share.
Garcia grew up in Velarde, a small town 12 miles outside of Espa§ola, and was raised in a household where Spanglish was spoken liberally.
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Spanglish, an unofficial language that mixes Spanish and English, is used humorously in Garcia's short skit, "Juanito's Interview."
"The play deals with cultural diversity," Garcia said. "Juanito, who's from northern New Mexico, is an intelligent person who goes to interview for a job at the DMV. Because of the way he speaks, they assume he's applying for a custodial position."
In reality, Juanito is interviewing for bureau chief. He chooses to speak in a language not really appropriate for the situation, because he believes that it makes him who he is.
Garcia authored another play, "All The Time," which will be performed at the National Hispanic Cultural Center as well.
"'All The Time' is pretty much about my life as the father of three boys - my little 'Bonanza,'" he said.
The play deals with a guy who's very manipulative with women, and his boys are learning to be the same way.
"It's a little bit autobiographical, but don't tell their momma that, because, oh boy, (explicative) will hit the fan."
Garcia said his plays are being shown at the center because of their cultural themes.
"It's a beautiful theater," he said. "I'm very excited about this."
COMING ATTRACTION
"All the Time" and "Juanito"
National Hispanic Cultural Center
Thursday to Saturday 8 p.m.
$5
277-7331
