California Story
(A Faustian Preter-Capitalist Scream)

A genre-defying historical drama that explores the complex journey of California’s last Mexican governor, Pío Pico, whose pursuit of the American Dream forces him to sacrifice his family, identity, and integrity.

The play takes audiences on a journey between California’s past and a dystopian water-world future, confronting the costs of ambition, race, and privilege in America.

At its heart, the play follows Pío Pico, whose sacrifices reflect the cost of clinging to the American dream during California’s transition into statehood in the 1800s.

The play was a finalist for the 2024 Ojai Playwrights Conference.

Director: Michael Alvarez