Ollin Acosta, a sophomore studying Theatre at the University of Arizona School of Theatre, Film & Television (TFTV), has been cast in his first leading role in the upcoming production of Alebrijes at the Scoundrel & Scamp Theatre.
The bilingual show, created by Georgina Escobar and directed for the Scoundrel & Scamp by Marc Pinate, follows a man who falls deathly ill and has a dream in a mythological forest of creatures. The story is a playful homage to Pedro Linares, the real-life creator of alebrijes, the fantastical creatures made of wood or papier-mâché that have become synonymous with Mexico. Set in present-day San Luis Potosí, in Xochimilco in 1936, and in an afterlife that resembles a psychedelic Oaxacan jungle, young Pedro realizes his artistic potential and creates a cultural legacy.
“It means so much to me to be part of Alebrijes,” says Ollin. “It’s a magical story firmly rooted in Mexico that gives audiences a sense of what it means to be Mexican. And I love the journey that Pedro undertakes, finding his true self – and flourishing.”
Born and raised in Tucson, Ollin was in high school when his dad encouraged him to explore theatre. In his senior year, Ollin was cast in Borderlands Theater’s production of Westside Stories, the site-specific series honoring the stories, people and places that made Tucson barrios vital to the culture of the Southwest, and he was hooked. “I knew leaving high school that I wanted to do this seriously. I want it to be my job in the future,” he says.
“Ollin is such a great example of home-grown Tucson talent,” says director Marc Pinate. “His authenticity on stage is golden and his choices really bring his role to life. I first worked with him in Westside Stories and was impressed with his work ethic and fearlessness on stage. From that experience I knew he could handle the Spanish and I also liked that he matched the real Pedro Linares’ indigenous features. We see so few dark-skinned actors in leading roles.”
Since commencing his BA in Theatre Arts at TFTV, Ollin has performed in two plays as part of the Spring 2024 edition of the annual New Directions Festival, the series of short works created and performed entirely by students. He is also a member of the Charles Darwin Experience, the University of Arizona’s improv troupe, where he relishes the challenge of interacting with scene partners and developing characters on the spot. Looking ahead, Ollin looks forward to opportunities to collaborate with Film & Television students as a cast member in senior thesis films.
Alebrijes will take place on the mainstage at the Scoundrel & Scamp Theatre from October 17 through November 3. More information is available at https://www.scoundrelandscamp.org/alebrijes.