Exploring Indigenous Identities in ‘Andares’ Play

'Andares' is a stage play that delves into the experiences and identities of four individuals from indigenous communities in Mexico. The play challenges their context and contemporary lifestyles. It is scheduled for two performances at the La Rendija Theater in Mérida, on Friday, December 6 and Saturday, November 7 at 8 pm.

The play is a journey through the lives of four indigenous individuals who come together to celebrate a ritual. They share stories from their childhood to adulthood, their life challenges, dreams, and aspirations, according to actor and producer Josué Maychi. The narratives unfold in a contrast between the world of indigenous people and the contemporary, globalized world.

The characters include Alex Orozco, a muxe from Tehuantepec, Oaxaca, who grapples with his role as the third gender. Maychi, another protagonist, explores the expectations of being Maya today. "Much is said about the Mayans, but we, the indigenous people, are seldom asked what we want," Maychi added.

José Guadalupe de la Cruz plays the character of Lupe, who questions his belonging to the Wixárika ethnicity. Lupe is trying to understand the truth behind the marakames' communication with the gods and questions the inconsistencies in his community. Musician Kaleb Oseguera discusses the issue of violence in the sotavento area of Veracruz and its personal impact on him. The play is accompanied by live music from Oseguera, which serves as a connecting thread for the stories. Directed by Héctor Flores Komatsu, 'Andares' originated from a residency in Cuernavaca, Morelos, where the four participants gathered to discuss personal experiences.

La Rendija Theater is located at 50 Street number 464-D between 49 and 51, in the Historic Center. Tickets are available at the theater box office, priced at 150 pesos for general admission and 120 pesos for students, teachers, and Inapam members. The play runs for 75 minutes and is suitable for audiences aged 13 and over.