Esperanza
by Esperanza Productions

Oct. 15 - Oct. 24

 

ESPERANZA tells the story of Mercedes Urive who arrives from Mexico like thousands of others, looking for a better life but without proper documentation. She has one advantage in her citizen cousin Carla Delgado, who lives in her own apartment and has steady work. Soon Mercedes finds an ideal job helping at the home of Lillian and Rolando Trujillo, a well-to-do couple with seemingly good intentions. Life seems to be going perfectly for Mercedes.

 

Perhaps the bliss brought on by this perfection leads to quickly-made decisions. And these decisions create complications which put her and her new child in danger. Inspired by the separation of children from their families during both Democratic and Republican administrations, Esperanza looks at this crisis from a personal point of view.

 

ABOUT THE SHOW: Esperanza began as an idea in 2016, during a time when the United States was increasing efforts to deport undocumented immigrants. In the middle of those policies, families were being torn apart in heartbreaking ways. Children were separated from their parents, sometimes from the arms of their mothers.

 

Playwright Rupert Reyes reflects “I couldn't stop thinking about those women. I kept on wondering what it must feel like to leave everything behind in search of a better life, only to face the unimaginable pain of losing your child. Those questions stayed with me, and over time they became the emotional starting point for Esperanza.”

 

This play isn't about politics. It's about people. It's about their dreams, their sacrifices, their fears, their mistakes, and the hope that keeps them moving forward even when the odds seem impossible. The title, Esperanza, means "hope," and that is the heart of this story. Reyes shares “My hope is that audiences leave with a deeper understanding of the people who come to this country seeking a better future, not only for themselves and their families, but also with the desire to build lives and contribute to the communities they become part of.” 

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Esperanza
by Rupert Reyes
Esperanza Productions

 October 15-24, 2026

October 15-17 performances Thursday-Saturday @ 8pm

October 18 Sunday matinee @ 3pm

 October 21-24 performances Wednesday-Saturday @ 8pm

Trinity Street Players, 4th floor, 901 Trinity Street, Austin

A co-production of Esperanza Producdtions and Trinity St Players

Purchase tickets here