In collaboration with Opera Southwest, the National Hispanic Cultural Center is set to present an opera depicting the life of labor leader Dolores Huerta. The performance, titled "Dolores," will debut on October 26 at the Albuquerque Journal Theatre.
Zack Quintero, Executive Director of the National Hispanic Cultural Center (NHCC), emphasized the significance of this production. "This play goes to the core of our pride as New Mexicans and gente, Dolores is an icon for standing together with all people demanding dignity and access to justice," he said. He also highlighted that key contributors to the production are from New Mexico.
The opera narrates the story of Dolores Huerta, a pivotal figure in labor activism during the 20th century. Born in Dawson, New Mexico in 1930, Huerta co-founded the United Farm Workers’ Union alongside César Chávez. She played a crucial role in organizing the Delano grape strike in the 1960s and was instrumental in negotiating workers' contracts.
Set in 1968, "Dolores" captures a critical period in American history amid political events like Bobby Kennedy’s presidential campaign. The opera portrays Huerta's efforts to unify farmworkers across racial and linguistic lines while balancing her personal responsibilities.
Composer Nicolás Lell Benavides and librettist Marella Martin Koch have crafted a unique musical experience blending various styles such as sacred chants and electric guitar riffs to reflect Huerta's complex journey.
The NHCC has longstanding connections with Dolores Huerta through events like the annual César Chávez and Dolores Huerta March and Celebration. This performance marks its first presentation outside California on its national tour.
Performances are scheduled for October 26 at 2:00 p.m., October 31 at 7:30 p.m., and November 2 at 2:00 p.m. Tickets are available at nhccnm.org/events.
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