Today we’d like to introduce you to Dolores Chavez.
Hi Dolores, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
I am an Angeleno, born and raised in Los Angeles by a resilient and rebellious family. Two families migrated north through the Southwest and settled in LA, one generation at a time. I grew up in a household shaped by human fragility, family legacy stories, and an understanding of how to find balance amid chaos. These experiences prepared me for a creative life dedicated to equity, authentic human truths, and community pride.
For over 30 years, I have been inspired and guided by the courageous artistic process of those who seek to voice the perspectives of a culturally diverse city and world. My role as an artist, producer, and arts advocate within the community has focused on listening and creating space for stories. Whether working with the artistic staff at Center Theatre Group, leading the opening of a new theater near Skid Row, or as staff with the Los Angeles Department of Cultural Affairs to build alliances and develop performing arts programs in Canoga Park, my focus remains the same – the Arts are for All.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
A true creative journey leads us down paths that challenge us, make us question, and sometimes make us fearless. As an artist, producer, and arts advocate, supporting authentic programs that connect with local communities is both rewarding and demanding, especially amid ongoing debates about funding and accessibility. How do we create safe and nurturing spaces for everyone when many worthy organizations struggle to stay open? I have found success through collaboration, shared vision, and leadership in achieving mutual artistic goals. Our neighborhoods that aim to build a foundation of access and possibilities demonstrate that working together in this way is key to a sustainable future.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
The Theatre is a dark space; your vision brings in the light.
I have been working with the Los Angeles Department of Cultural Affairs, Performing Arts Division, at the Taxco Theatre in Canoga Park for nearly six years. I am proud to represent the city as part of a community where the arts flourish and are strengthened by the dedication of local and citywide artists, community arts groups, and social and educational institutions. Our goal is to be a vibrant and nurturing creative space that offers programs best reflecting the lives and dreams of local neighborhoods.
Previously, as the Producer for P.L.A.Y/Center Theatre Group (CTG), I produced theater for young audiences touring throughout Los Angeles, as well as performances at The Kennedy Center in Washington, DC, and in Scotland. While at CTG, I created extensive educational and community programs that expanded and complemented the productions beyond the stage. As the Director of the Rosenthal Theatre at ICA, I oversaw the vision and programming for the Rosenthal Theatre, which serves as a creative home for innovative and diverse performance, education, and artist engagement, aiming to nurture and inspire the creative spirit of young people and adults.
As a writer, I received a McKnight Fellowship, and my work was showcased at the South Coast Repertory Hispanic Playwrights Festival and the Mark Taper Forum New Works Festival. I was recognized by local government and neighborhood leaders for my community contributions. I have served on the national boards of ASSITEJ, KCET, and Native Voices at the Autry Center of Western Heritage. Additionally, I was named “Queen of the Angels” by Stage Raw for my contributions to theater in Los Angeles.
Do you have any advice for those just starting out?
For those exploring their creativity, many days can be lost in the process—the joy and pain of the journey. Here are some notes from my experience that can serve as a resource.
Find authenticity in your voice and vision by sharing them often and in multiple ways.
Be generous with your listening, nurture your curiosity, bravely embrace new experiences, and patiently allow your instincts to develop.
Find your people—those who genuinely enjoy and understand you, support your journey, offer guiding questions, and challenge your artistic growth.
Get out and help others reach their goals, and be a supporter in making your neighborhood better.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://culturela.org
- Instagram: dca_taxcotheatre
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DCATaxcoTheatre
