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November 1, 2025: Gratitude, Memory, and the Power of Voice: A Heartfelt Thank You from New York City
As I take a moment to breathe in the crisp New York air and look up at the clear blue sky, I’m filled with gratitude—for the journey, the people, and the purpose that brought Undesirable Secrets to the stage here at United Solo.
To everyone who attended the Ypsilanti/Ann Arbor fundraising performance, thank you for your support and belief in this story from the very beginning. Your energy helped carry it all the way to Theatre Row in New York City. A special thank you to Amy and Stephanie Gluckman and to Sue Barker for their steadfast encouragement and generosity.
To my family—thank you for standing by me through every late-night rehearsal and rewrite. And to my sister, Carolina—my staunchest supporter—this show carries a piece of your heart. It is dedicated in part to your husband, Steve, whose passing leaves an ache in us all. I’m deeply grateful that he was able to see the first performance in Texas. His spirit was with us on that stage.
My gratitude also extends to the remarkable team at United Solo—Wendy-Lane Bailey, Emily Wong, and the entire staff—for their professionalism, kindness, and commitment to artists who believe in the power of theatre to heal, educate, and inspire.
Undesirable Secrets tells the story of Anthony C. Acevedo, the first Mexican American to register as a Holocaust survivor—a medic, soldier, and witness to history. The piece speaks not only of war and trauma, but of survival, silence, and the courage it takes to tell the truth after years of being told to keep quiet. In these times, when truth and empathy are so often overshadowed by division, Anthony’s story reminds us that silence can be as destructive as hate—and that healing begins when we dare to speak.
I also want to extend heartfelt thanks to Rebeca and Ernesto Acevedo, Anthony’s children, for their trust, guidance, and faith in my interpretation of their father’s extraordinary life. Their support and insight have been instrumental in shaping this production into what it has become.
After a year of performing and touring Undesirable Secrets, I plan to take a brief respite to rest and reflect. But the work continues. On December 18, 2025, I’ll return to the stage in New York City for Sofía: A Forgotten Child of the Border, a bilingual press-conference drama presented in recognition of the United Nations’ International Migrants Day. The piece gives voice to those silenced by U.S. family separation policies and explores what it means to reclaim one’s humanity in the face of bureaucracy and indifference.
To everyone who has walked alongside me on this journey—thank you. This work is about memory, justice, and love. And as Anthony himself might say… adelante—always forward.
With gratitude and hope,
Rodolfo
To everyone who attended the Ypsilanti/Ann Arbor fundraising performance, thank you for your support and belief in this story from the very beginning. Your energy helped carry it all the way to Theatre Row in New York City. A special thank you to Amy and Stephanie Gluckman and to Sue Barker for their steadfast encouragement and generosity.
To my family—thank you for standing by me through every late-night rehearsal and rewrite. And to my sister, Carolina—my staunchest supporter—this show carries a piece of your heart. It is dedicated in part to your husband, Steve, whose passing leaves an ache in us all. I’m deeply grateful that he was able to see the first performance in Texas. His spirit was with us on that stage.
My gratitude also extends to the remarkable team at United Solo—Wendy-Lane Bailey, Emily Wong, and the entire staff—for their professionalism, kindness, and commitment to artists who believe in the power of theatre to heal, educate, and inspire.
Undesirable Secrets tells the story of Anthony C. Acevedo, the first Mexican American to register as a Holocaust survivor—a medic, soldier, and witness to history. The piece speaks not only of war and trauma, but of survival, silence, and the courage it takes to tell the truth after years of being told to keep quiet. In these times, when truth and empathy are so often overshadowed by division, Anthony’s story reminds us that silence can be as destructive as hate—and that healing begins when we dare to speak.
I also want to extend heartfelt thanks to Rebeca and Ernesto Acevedo, Anthony’s children, for their trust, guidance, and faith in my interpretation of their father’s extraordinary life. Their support and insight have been instrumental in shaping this production into what it has become.
After a year of performing and touring Undesirable Secrets, I plan to take a brief respite to rest and reflect. But the work continues. On December 18, 2025, I’ll return to the stage in New York City for Sofía: A Forgotten Child of the Border, a bilingual press-conference drama presented in recognition of the United Nations’ International Migrants Day. The piece gives voice to those silenced by U.S. family separation policies and explores what it means to reclaim one’s humanity in the face of bureaucracy and indifference.
To everyone who has walked alongside me on this journey—thank you. This work is about memory, justice, and love. And as Anthony himself might say… adelante—always forward.
With gratitude and hope,
Rodolfo
October 24, 2025: Memory, Voice, and the Stories We Must Tell
This fall, my work travels across stages, across borders, and across emotional terrain that feels both deeply personal and profoundly urgent.
On November 1, my one-man play Undesirable Secrets will premiere Off-Broadway at Theatre Row in New York City. Based on the life of WWII medic and Holocaust survivor Anthony C. Acevedo, the piece explores a silence held too long—one that Anthony was asked to keep by the U.S. government and one that haunted him until the end of his life. I’ve carried his story with great care, and with the support of his family and the Anthony Acevedo Educational Foundation, I’ve done my best to give it voice and dignity onstage.
Yet Undesirable Secrets is only one part of the larger conversation I hope to create this year.
In June, I released my most personal work to date, Brown Son of Lorca: A Boy Reclaimed in Poems, Stories & Voice. In it, I confront my own silences—the Spanish I was denied, the identities I was taught to hide, the stories I was told weren’t worthy of the page. Through poetry, memory, and storytelling, I reclaim them all. That collection debuted at La Nacional in NYC as part of a Danisarte event honoring Federico García Lorca, and I will never forget the emotion in that room—a space filled with resonance, resistance, and response.
Then, on December 18, I return to New York for Sofía: A Forgotten Child of the Border, produced by Danisarte and staged at Dag Hammarskjöld Plaza across from the United Nations on International Migrants Day and Thalia Spanish Theatre in Queens. This press-conference-style play centers on a Mexican father and a Latina intake clerk—two strangers connected by the devastating effects of the U.S. family separation policy. The piece bears witness to the children taken, the families shattered, and the bureaucracies that tried to erase their names.
All three works are connected by a single thread:
the will to remember.
To speak what was buried.
To stand in the places where silence once lived and choose voice instead.
These aren’t just performances. They’re offerings.
And so, to those discovering my work for the first time, I welcome you. Below is a poem from Brown Son of Lorca that speaks to the very heart of my artistic journey. Thank you for reading. I hope to see you in the theatre—or between the lines.
found in the back, where they keep the ghosts
i was just
a brown boy from Lubbock, Texas,
who didn’t know
how to name what he felt--
only that it didn’t fit
in cowboy boots,
or church pews
or locker rooms
where…
elementary school aged boys
stood naked.
i rediscovered you, Federico,
in the back of the university library--
where the light flickered
and the books were all in español,
donde no one ever went.
your name wasn’t never mentioned.
your picture wasn’t on any wall.
but there you were--
your pages
soft
waiting for me to find them.
i’d forgotten how men could write
like that.
about wounds that sing.
about love that hides.
about being too much and not enough
in the same skin.
you saved me.
made me stop hiding
at least for a while.
it took me some forty-five years--
to find you again.
to write,
not because the world asked me,
but because—like you—it didn’t.
to perform
because i must,
not because i fear a theatre half-empty.
i speak
because you reminded me
of the journey
being about me--
not “them.”
i am,
now
becoming
what i was made to erase.
i am because of you--
of a memory of you--
born when I was a boy.
your words—my words,
once buried,
are blooming again--
and again--
en mí.
On November 1, my one-man play Undesirable Secrets will premiere Off-Broadway at Theatre Row in New York City. Based on the life of WWII medic and Holocaust survivor Anthony C. Acevedo, the piece explores a silence held too long—one that Anthony was asked to keep by the U.S. government and one that haunted him until the end of his life. I’ve carried his story with great care, and with the support of his family and the Anthony Acevedo Educational Foundation, I’ve done my best to give it voice and dignity onstage.
Yet Undesirable Secrets is only one part of the larger conversation I hope to create this year.
In June, I released my most personal work to date, Brown Son of Lorca: A Boy Reclaimed in Poems, Stories & Voice. In it, I confront my own silences—the Spanish I was denied, the identities I was taught to hide, the stories I was told weren’t worthy of the page. Through poetry, memory, and storytelling, I reclaim them all. That collection debuted at La Nacional in NYC as part of a Danisarte event honoring Federico García Lorca, and I will never forget the emotion in that room—a space filled with resonance, resistance, and response.
Then, on December 18, I return to New York for Sofía: A Forgotten Child of the Border, produced by Danisarte and staged at Dag Hammarskjöld Plaza across from the United Nations on International Migrants Day and Thalia Spanish Theatre in Queens. This press-conference-style play centers on a Mexican father and a Latina intake clerk—two strangers connected by the devastating effects of the U.S. family separation policy. The piece bears witness to the children taken, the families shattered, and the bureaucracies that tried to erase their names.
All three works are connected by a single thread:
the will to remember.
To speak what was buried.
To stand in the places where silence once lived and choose voice instead.
These aren’t just performances. They’re offerings.
And so, to those discovering my work for the first time, I welcome you. Below is a poem from Brown Son of Lorca that speaks to the very heart of my artistic journey. Thank you for reading. I hope to see you in the theatre—or between the lines.
found in the back, where they keep the ghosts
i was just
a brown boy from Lubbock, Texas,
who didn’t know
how to name what he felt--
only that it didn’t fit
in cowboy boots,
or church pews
or locker rooms
where…
elementary school aged boys
stood naked.
i rediscovered you, Federico,
in the back of the university library--
where the light flickered
and the books were all in español,
donde no one ever went.
your name wasn’t never mentioned.
your picture wasn’t on any wall.
but there you were--
your pages
soft
waiting for me to find them.
i’d forgotten how men could write
like that.
about wounds that sing.
about love that hides.
about being too much and not enough
in the same skin.
you saved me.
made me stop hiding
at least for a while.
it took me some forty-five years--
to find you again.
to write,
not because the world asked me,
but because—like you—it didn’t.
to perform
because i must,
not because i fear a theatre half-empty.
i speak
because you reminded me
of the journey
being about me--
not “them.”
i am,
now
becoming
what i was made to erase.
i am because of you--
of a memory of you--
born when I was a boy.
your words—my words,
once buried,
are blooming again--
and again--
en mí.
October 13, 2025: A Homecoming of Heart: Gratitude to the Frisco Lakes Community
With director Bill Doll and his wife (right behind me), Ramona Logan (beside me), and my new friends from the Firsco Lakes community. Thanks to you all!
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This past weekend’s performance of Undesirable Secrets at Frisco Lakes was one I’ll carry with me for a long time. It felt like coming full circle—returning to the community that first believed in this project and helped it take its early steps toward the national stage.
My deepest thanks to Dana and Howard Hall and Ramona Logan for their warmth, encouragement, and generosity in helping make this performance possible. Their belief in Anthony’s story has meant so much from the very beginning. I also want to thank Bill and Carala Doll—Bill for his remarkable direction and unwavering collaboration, and Carala for her constant support and kindness. I’m especially grateful to them for opening their home to me during my stay and for the countless ways they’ve both contributed to this journey. To everyone who attended—thank you for your presence, your applause, and for standing with me at the end of the performance. I’ll never forget how engaged the audience was—especially the moment Anthony asked a question directly from the stage and voices from the crowd responded for the first time. That exchange felt electric, alive—a shared heartbeat between story and audience. The compliments afterward were humbling, but one stood out above the rest: a lady told me she realized at one point she’d forgotten to breathe, completely absorbed in the story. “I had to remind myself to take a breath,” she said. As a performer, I can’t imagine a greater gift. After the show, I had the privilege of speaking with several audience members who shared stories of their relatives—veterans, Holocaust survivors, and families who, like Anthony’s, carried painful secrets for generations. Those moments of connection, of truth shared and honored, are why I continue to tell this story. My heartfelt thanks to the Frisco Lakes community for your friendship, your belief, and your standing ovation. You were the first to welcome Undesirable Secrets into the world—and now, as it prepares to take the stage Off-Broadway in New York City on November 1, I hope you know how deeply your early support has shaped this journey. My heartfelt thanks to the Frisco Lakes community for your friendship, your belief, and your standing ovation. You were the first to welcome Undesirable Secrets into the world—and now, as it prepares to take the stage Off-Broadway at Theatre Row in New York City on November 1, I hope you know how deeply your early support has shaped this journey. Tickets for the Off-Broadway performance of Undesirable Secrets are available here. Only a few tickets remain. — Rodolfo |
October 6, 2025: Undesirable Secrets – Chicago Reflections
With Sylvia, Scott, and Spencer Ball shortly after the performance.
With award-winning Chicago director and actor--and my longtime friend from our 1980s theatre days in Lubbock, Texas--Michael Graham.
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This past weekend’s performance of Undesirable Secrets at Mrs. Murphy & Sons Irish Bistro in Chicago was an evening I’ll never forget. The show continues to open doors to new friendships and meaningful connections—people who walk into my life as strangers and leave as friends.
Among them are Scott Whitehair, the talented producer of the acclaimed Solo Sunday series, and his fiancée, Sylvia, who managed the front of house with grace and warmth. Their generosity, professionalism, and care made the evening feel special from the moment I arrived. Sharing dinner with them afterward was as enjoyable as the show itself—a reminder of how art brings people together. It was also a joy to finally meet Spencer Ball in person—the gifted Chicago musician who composed “The Book (The Diary),” the hauntingly beautiful song that opens the performance. His piece is both a tribute to Anthony Acevedo and a reflection of the emotional depth that defines this story. The audience was extraordinary. Among them sat a second-generation Holocaust camp survivor, whose presence added an indescribable weight and poignancy to the evening. Their reaction, along with the standing ovation and the thoughtful conversations that followed, left me profoundly moved. Listening to audience members speak about Anthony’s story—and about their own connections to silence, survival, and resilience—reminded me why I tell this story. It was also wonderful to reconnect with Michael Graham, a dear friend and colleague from my early theatre days in Lubbock, Texas. Back in 1985, after finishing our undergraduate studies, my wife Sonya and I founded a small storefront theatre called The Actor’s Trading Post, where Michael directed us in The Woolgatherer. His performances in productions such as Bosoms & Neglect and The Subject Was Roses remain unforgettable. Today, Michael continues to shine in Chicago’s theatre scene—recently winning Best Director for the play Short Run and delivering a powerful portrayal of Roy Cohn in Angels in America. Seeing him again after all these years was both moving and inspiring—a reminder of how the love of theatre endures and connects us through time. I’m deeply thankful to the staff of Mrs. Murphy & Sons Irish Bistro for their kindness, professionalism, and for providing such an intimate, welcoming space for solo theatre. Next stop: Frisco, Texas, for an exclusive performance this Saturday. It feels meaningful to return to the community that hosted one of the earliest productions of Undesirable Secrets—and to director Bill Doll’s hometown, where this incredible journey began. |
September 29, 2025: Thank You, Ypsilanti
With my beautiful wife, daughter and her fiance.
With Sylvia Nolasco-Rivers, the owner of Pilar's Tamales in Ann Arbor, and a longtime supporter of my work! Love ya, Sylvia.
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What an unforgettable evening. Performing Undesirable Secrets in my hometown of Ypsilanti was more than a premiere—it was a homecoming. To my family, friends old and new, and every single person who filled the seats: thank you. The response from attendees was profoundly moving, with comments calling the play “powerful,” “amazing,” “unforgettable”—and even “worthy of a New York stage.” Hearing those words here at home was both humbling and inspiring.
Backstage, I felt the familiar nerves that come with performing for those you know best—the weight of expectations mixed with the deep desire to honor your community. Yet, the moment I stepped onto the stage, those nerves dissolved into gratitude and energy, carried by your support. There is a special wonder in that transformation: the waiting, the trembling, and then the washing away of it all as the story takes over. I am especially thankful to those who donated to the show, including many who couldn’t attend in person. Your generosity helps us bring Undesirable Secrets to new audiences across the country. Every gift, every kind word, and every presence in the audience reminds me why this story matters. The journey doesn’t end here. Next, Undesirable Secrets travels to Chicago for performances that will introduce Anthony Acevedo’s story to new communities, and then onward to New York City for its Off-Broadway debut at Theatre Row on November 1, 2025, as part of the United Solo Theatre Festival. These milestones are not just professional achievements—they are steps in keeping Anthony’s legacy alive and sharing his truth with as many people as possible. To those who shared this Ypsilanti night with me: thank you for being the foundation that makes it possible for me to take this story further. |
Septemeber 25, 2025: Honored to Be Oakland County ISD’s Featured Author for Hispanic Heritage Month
On September 23, 2025, I had the great honor of serving as the Featured Author for Oakland County Intermediate School District’s Hispanic Heritage Month celebration. It was a truly meaningful experience to connect with both students and educators, sharing my journey as a writer and the cultural narratives that have shaped my work.
During our time together, I spoke about the inspirations behind books like Brown Son of Lorca and Undesirable Secrets and shared how my own story began in my mother’s second-hand store in Lubbock, Texas. That early spark of storytelling has carried me all the way to stages and classrooms across the country, and my hope was to inspire the 4th–8th grade students in attendance to see the power in their own voices and experiences.
The Oakland Schools ELD (English Language Development) team has created something special through their Hispanic Heritage Month programming. Their dedication to celebrating Latino heritage while also advocating for multilingual learners is vital. It reminds us that embracing identity and language strengthens both individuals and communities.
I am deeply grateful to Christina Kozlowski, Suzanne Toohey, Christy Osborne, and Kelsey Witt for inviting me and for their commitment to education. Their work ensures that young people not only learn history but also see their own stories reflected in the fabric of our shared culture.
This event was a powerful reminder of why I write and perform: to honor heritage, inspire dialogue, and encourage others to embrace their voices. To everyone who made the program possible, and to all the students who participated — thank you for allowing me to be part of this celebration.
A Special Visit to Washtenaw International High School
The very next day, on September 24, I had the pleasure of visiting Washtenaw International High School, where I was invited by Ashley Fox to meet with his drama students. Together, we shared and exchanged ideas about the art of playwriting, with some of the students bravely presenting ideas for their own original scripts. I also spoke about Undesirable Secrets and the journey of bringing such a personal and historical story to life on stage. It was energizing to see their creativity, curiosity, and passion for theater.
Looking Ahead
As I continue my work, these moments of connection energize my larger projects. Rehearsals for Undesirable Secrets are moving forward in preparation for its Off-Broadway premiere this November at Theatre Row, while Sofía: A Forgotten Child of the Border will be staged in New York City on December 18 in observance of International Migrants Day. (More on this in an upcoming post.) Each of these projects, like the Oakland County ISD event, reflects my ongoing commitment to amplifying underrepresented voices and sharing the stories that shape our understanding of history and identity.
During our time together, I spoke about the inspirations behind books like Brown Son of Lorca and Undesirable Secrets and shared how my own story began in my mother’s second-hand store in Lubbock, Texas. That early spark of storytelling has carried me all the way to stages and classrooms across the country, and my hope was to inspire the 4th–8th grade students in attendance to see the power in their own voices and experiences.
The Oakland Schools ELD (English Language Development) team has created something special through their Hispanic Heritage Month programming. Their dedication to celebrating Latino heritage while also advocating for multilingual learners is vital. It reminds us that embracing identity and language strengthens both individuals and communities.
I am deeply grateful to Christina Kozlowski, Suzanne Toohey, Christy Osborne, and Kelsey Witt for inviting me and for their commitment to education. Their work ensures that young people not only learn history but also see their own stories reflected in the fabric of our shared culture.
This event was a powerful reminder of why I write and perform: to honor heritage, inspire dialogue, and encourage others to embrace their voices. To everyone who made the program possible, and to all the students who participated — thank you for allowing me to be part of this celebration.
A Special Visit to Washtenaw International High School
The very next day, on September 24, I had the pleasure of visiting Washtenaw International High School, where I was invited by Ashley Fox to meet with his drama students. Together, we shared and exchanged ideas about the art of playwriting, with some of the students bravely presenting ideas for their own original scripts. I also spoke about Undesirable Secrets and the journey of bringing such a personal and historical story to life on stage. It was energizing to see their creativity, curiosity, and passion for theater.
Looking Ahead
As I continue my work, these moments of connection energize my larger projects. Rehearsals for Undesirable Secrets are moving forward in preparation for its Off-Broadway premiere this November at Theatre Row, while Sofía: A Forgotten Child of the Border will be staged in New York City on December 18 in observance of International Migrants Day. (More on this in an upcoming post.) Each of these projects, like the Oakland County ISD event, reflects my ongoing commitment to amplifying underrepresented voices and sharing the stories that shape our understanding of history and identity.
September 12, 2025: Undesirable Secrets Returns Home to Ypsilanti
There is nothing like performing for a hometown audience. After an extraordinary run in New York City at Theatre for the New City’s Dream Up Festival—with sold-out performances, standing ovations, and praise from critics—I am thrilled to bring my solo play, Undesirable Secrets, back home to Ypsilanti.
This special performance will take place on Saturday, September 27, 2025, at 8:00 PM at the Riverside Arts Center. Even more meaningful, it serves as a fundraiser for the play’s Off-Broadway premiere at Theatre Row in New York City on November 1, 2025.
Before that big night in New York, the play will also travel to Chicago on October 5 and to Texas later in the month—and tickets for those performances are already selling well. To be able to take this story across the country is both humbling and deeply moving.
The response in New York was extraordinary:
“Rodolfo Alvarado delivers a riveting performance…. His performance is nothing short of hypnotic.... The script deserves equal praise…. Every line matters. The play leaves us richer, more thoughtful, more human.... As someone who has seen more than 300 plays on Broadway, Off-Broadway, and Off-Off Broadway, and reviewed hundreds, I do not make this statement lightly: Undesirable Secrets is worthy of Broadway.”
— Bob Wicke, Theatre Critic & Professor Emeritus of English, NYC
“Fascinating, moving and painful... a symphony.”
— Bill Koch, Critic, Performer, Performing Arts Legacy Project NYC
“Brilliant. Mesmerizing. Worthy of Broadway.”
— Patricia Herrera, Latino Media NYC
I am especially grateful to Tyler Weston and the Ypsilanti Community Action Network for their support in making this hometown performance possible. And a heartfelt thank you goes to Chicago musician Spencer Ball, who composed an original song for the show. We hope to have it recorded in time to premiere at the Ypsi performance before it’s fully showcased at the Chicago event.
Undesirable Secrets tells the true story of Anthony C. Acevedo—a Mexican American WWII medic and the first Mexican American officially recognized as a Holocaust survivor by the U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum. It is a story about silence, trauma, resilience, and the healing power of truth.
Tickets for the Ypsilanti performance are $20 and available by clicking here.
I hope you’ll join us for this one-night-only hometown performance, and help us send Undesirable Secrets to Chicago, Texas, and finally Off-Broadway in New York with the love and strength of Ypsilanti behind it.
This special performance will take place on Saturday, September 27, 2025, at 8:00 PM at the Riverside Arts Center. Even more meaningful, it serves as a fundraiser for the play’s Off-Broadway premiere at Theatre Row in New York City on November 1, 2025.
Before that big night in New York, the play will also travel to Chicago on October 5 and to Texas later in the month—and tickets for those performances are already selling well. To be able to take this story across the country is both humbling and deeply moving.
The response in New York was extraordinary:
“Rodolfo Alvarado delivers a riveting performance…. His performance is nothing short of hypnotic.... The script deserves equal praise…. Every line matters. The play leaves us richer, more thoughtful, more human.... As someone who has seen more than 300 plays on Broadway, Off-Broadway, and Off-Off Broadway, and reviewed hundreds, I do not make this statement lightly: Undesirable Secrets is worthy of Broadway.”
— Bob Wicke, Theatre Critic & Professor Emeritus of English, NYC
“Fascinating, moving and painful... a symphony.”
— Bill Koch, Critic, Performer, Performing Arts Legacy Project NYC
“Brilliant. Mesmerizing. Worthy of Broadway.”
— Patricia Herrera, Latino Media NYC
I am especially grateful to Tyler Weston and the Ypsilanti Community Action Network for their support in making this hometown performance possible. And a heartfelt thank you goes to Chicago musician Spencer Ball, who composed an original song for the show. We hope to have it recorded in time to premiere at the Ypsi performance before it’s fully showcased at the Chicago event.
Undesirable Secrets tells the true story of Anthony C. Acevedo—a Mexican American WWII medic and the first Mexican American officially recognized as a Holocaust survivor by the U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum. It is a story about silence, trauma, resilience, and the healing power of truth.
Tickets for the Ypsilanti performance are $20 and available by clicking here.
I hope you’ll join us for this one-night-only hometown performance, and help us send Undesirable Secrets to Chicago, Texas, and finally Off-Broadway in New York with the love and strength of Ypsilanti behind it.
August 30, 2025: Undesirable Secrets Praised as “Worthy of Broadway”
As I continue performing Undesirable Secrets here in New York City at Theatre for the New City, I am humbled by the incredible reception this story has received. Every performance has ended with standing ovations, and the response from audiences has been deeply moving.
This week, I was honored by a powerful review from theatre critic and Professor Emeritus of English Bob Wicke, who has seen and reviewed hundreds of plays on Broadway, Off-Broadway, and beyond. He wrote that Undesirable Secrets is “worthy of Broadway.”
I am deeply grateful for these words and for the chance to share Anthony Acevedo’s story — my inspiration, and the first Mexican American registered as a Holocaust survivor with the U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum.
There are only two performances left in New York City:
Saturday, August 30 at 2:00 PM
Sunday, August 31 at 2:00 PM
Tickets: www.ticketstoundesirablesecrets.com
Thank you to everyone who has supported this journey — especially the Anthony Acevedo Educational Foundation, Rebeca Acevedo-Carlin and Ernesto Acevedo, Alicia Kaplan and Hernan Acuña of Danisarte, and my longtime collaborator Bill Doll, who has helped me shape this work from the beginning.
Your encouragement reminds me why we tell stories: to honor memory, to challenge silence, and to spark conversation that outlives the performance itself.
— Rodolfo
Full Review by Bob Wicke
Undesirable Secrets: A One-Man Journey into Morality, Memory, and Healing
When I took my seat for the 6:30 PM performance of Undesirable Secrets at Theatre for the New City, I wasn’t quite sure what to expect. The premise—a WWII story about a man facing immense challenges—piqued my interest. What unfolded, however, was far more powerful and profoundly human: a one-man play that fearlessly probes questions of morality, abuse, and unimaginable choices.
The piece confronts universal dilemmas—governmental power versus individual ethics, the boundaries of family loyalty, and the internal conflicts we all carry. These aren’t just historical questions; they seep into our modern lives. Secrets that beg to be revealed, wounds that beg to be healed—this play captures both.
Rodolfo Alvarado delivers a riveting performance. His stage presence commands attention. Morphing effortlessly between characters, he renders the harrowing reality of imprisonment palpable while still infusing each moment with nuance and emotional grace. His performance is nothing short of hypnotic.
The script, written by Alvarado himself, deserves equal praise. Every line matters. His words conjure indelible images of capture, confinement, and the psychological anguish of being unseen. His use of the WWII medic as both a literal figure and a symbolic healer is elegant and deeply affecting. The play asks: Can we heal ourselves—or others—after the greatest trauma? The answer, Alvarado suggests, may rest in the courage to speak the unspoken.
Like the finest theater, Undesirable Secrets doesn’t offer neat endings or easy answers. It leaves us lingering—richer, more thoughtful, more human.
I have spent a lifetime in the theater. As a former professor of English who taught drama, and as someone who has seen more than 300 plays on Broadway, Off-Broadway, and Off-Off Broadway, and reviewed hundreds, I do not make this statement lightly: Undesirable Secrets is worthy of Broadway.
It is an extraordinary achievement of writing, acting, and storytelling. I cannot recommend this play highly enough.
— Bob Wicke, Educator and Theatre Critic
This week, I was honored by a powerful review from theatre critic and Professor Emeritus of English Bob Wicke, who has seen and reviewed hundreds of plays on Broadway, Off-Broadway, and beyond. He wrote that Undesirable Secrets is “worthy of Broadway.”
I am deeply grateful for these words and for the chance to share Anthony Acevedo’s story — my inspiration, and the first Mexican American registered as a Holocaust survivor with the U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum.
There are only two performances left in New York City:
Saturday, August 30 at 2:00 PM
Sunday, August 31 at 2:00 PM
Tickets: www.ticketstoundesirablesecrets.com
Thank you to everyone who has supported this journey — especially the Anthony Acevedo Educational Foundation, Rebeca Acevedo-Carlin and Ernesto Acevedo, Alicia Kaplan and Hernan Acuña of Danisarte, and my longtime collaborator Bill Doll, who has helped me shape this work from the beginning.
Your encouragement reminds me why we tell stories: to honor memory, to challenge silence, and to spark conversation that outlives the performance itself.
— Rodolfo
Full Review by Bob Wicke
Undesirable Secrets: A One-Man Journey into Morality, Memory, and Healing
When I took my seat for the 6:30 PM performance of Undesirable Secrets at Theatre for the New City, I wasn’t quite sure what to expect. The premise—a WWII story about a man facing immense challenges—piqued my interest. What unfolded, however, was far more powerful and profoundly human: a one-man play that fearlessly probes questions of morality, abuse, and unimaginable choices.
The piece confronts universal dilemmas—governmental power versus individual ethics, the boundaries of family loyalty, and the internal conflicts we all carry. These aren’t just historical questions; they seep into our modern lives. Secrets that beg to be revealed, wounds that beg to be healed—this play captures both.
Rodolfo Alvarado delivers a riveting performance. His stage presence commands attention. Morphing effortlessly between characters, he renders the harrowing reality of imprisonment palpable while still infusing each moment with nuance and emotional grace. His performance is nothing short of hypnotic.
The script, written by Alvarado himself, deserves equal praise. Every line matters. His words conjure indelible images of capture, confinement, and the psychological anguish of being unseen. His use of the WWII medic as both a literal figure and a symbolic healer is elegant and deeply affecting. The play asks: Can we heal ourselves—or others—after the greatest trauma? The answer, Alvarado suggests, may rest in the courage to speak the unspoken.
Like the finest theater, Undesirable Secrets doesn’t offer neat endings or easy answers. It leaves us lingering—richer, more thoughtful, more human.
I have spent a lifetime in the theater. As a former professor of English who taught drama, and as someone who has seen more than 300 plays on Broadway, Off-Broadway, and Off-Off Broadway, and reviewed hundreds, I do not make this statement lightly: Undesirable Secrets is worthy of Broadway.
It is an extraordinary achievement of writing, acting, and storytelling. I cannot recommend this play highly enough.
— Bob Wicke, Educator and Theatre Critic
August 25, 2025: Humbled by an Unforgettable Opening at Theatre for the New City
I am still humbled and overwhelmed by the response to Sunday’s performance of Undesirable Secrets at Theatre for the New City. To receive a standing ovation and to hear from so many that the show felt worthy of Broadway is an honor beyond words.
One of the most powerful moments for me came after the performance, when I met a second-generation Holocaust survivor who thanked me for bringing Anthony’s story to the world. Encounters like these are among the most profound gifts this play has brought into my life—meeting Holocaust survivors and their families, hearing their stories, and being reminded of the importance of keeping these histories alive. We must continue to educate, to bear witness, and to ensure that the atrocities of the Holocaust are never forgotten.
I was also moved by the words of a couple of college-aged audience members, who told me how vital it is that students see this show in order to understand the past and carry its lessons into the future. Their reaction affirmed for me the urgency of reaching younger generations with this history.
A heartfelt thank you to the staff of Theatre for the New City for their professionalism and care, and to Crystal Field, whose leadership and presence are an inspiration. It was an honor to meet her.
My deepest gratitude also goes to Rebeca Acevedo-Carlin and her brother Ernesto, who, through the Anthony Acevedo Educational Foundation, have entrusted me with their father’s story and supported this project with grace and strength.
Finally, a special thanks to Alicia Kaplan, founder of Danisarte and co-producer of the show, and to Hernan Acuña, Danisarte’s Associate Producer and Technical Director, for being there on opening day and for their steadfast support in bringing Undesirable Secrets to the New York stage.
This journey continues to fill me with gratitude. Thank you to everyone who attended, supported, and continue to believe in this story.
One of the most powerful moments for me came after the performance, when I met a second-generation Holocaust survivor who thanked me for bringing Anthony’s story to the world. Encounters like these are among the most profound gifts this play has brought into my life—meeting Holocaust survivors and their families, hearing their stories, and being reminded of the importance of keeping these histories alive. We must continue to educate, to bear witness, and to ensure that the atrocities of the Holocaust are never forgotten.
I was also moved by the words of a couple of college-aged audience members, who told me how vital it is that students see this show in order to understand the past and carry its lessons into the future. Their reaction affirmed for me the urgency of reaching younger generations with this history.
A heartfelt thank you to the staff of Theatre for the New City for their professionalism and care, and to Crystal Field, whose leadership and presence are an inspiration. It was an honor to meet her.
My deepest gratitude also goes to Rebeca Acevedo-Carlin and her brother Ernesto, who, through the Anthony Acevedo Educational Foundation, have entrusted me with their father’s story and supported this project with grace and strength.
Finally, a special thanks to Alicia Kaplan, founder of Danisarte and co-producer of the show, and to Hernan Acuña, Danisarte’s Associate Producer and Technical Director, for being there on opening day and for their steadfast support in bringing Undesirable Secrets to the New York stage.
This journey continues to fill me with gratitude. Thank you to everyone who attended, supported, and continue to believe in this story.
August 20, 2025: Two Days Until New York City!
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With just two days to go before I head to New York City for performances of Undesirable Secrets at Theatre for the New City, my heart is overflowing with gratitude.
First, I want to thank Rebeca and Ernesto Acevedo and the Anthony Acevedo Educational Foundation for trusting me with Anthony’s story and supporting this journey from the very beginning. To Alicia Kaplan, my NYC co-producer — thank you for your vision and dedication in helping bring this production to the city. To Crystal Field and the incredible staff at Theatre for the New City — thank you for opening your doors, sharing your insight, and making me feel so welcome as part of the Dream Up Festival 2025. And of course, to Bill Doll, the director, who will be joining me in New York — your guidance and collaboration have been invaluable every step of the way. To the co-director, the love of my life, Sonya. Thank you for your invaluable insight and for your encourgement. Above all, for your undying faith in my ability. This play has been a labor of love, memory, and truth — and I am deeply humbled by the support of so many people who have walked alongside me in this process. I hope to see many of you in the audience as we honor the extraordinary life of Anthony C. Acevedo, WWII medic, Holocaust survivor, and witness. Tickets are available here: www.ticketstoundesirablesecrets.com Thank you all — I cannot wait to share this work with you in New York City! |
August 5, 2025: How Heathers, The Musical and Undesirable Secrets Share a West Texas Beginning
Myself and the headshot Andy gifted to me and my wife, Sonya, back in 1987...and that's why I never throw anything away! LOL!
This Fall, two very different Off-Broadway shows are running just a few subway stops apart in New York City: the wildly funny and darkly subversive Heathers: The Musical, directed by my friend, Andrew Fickman, and my solo play Undesirable Secrets, a deeply personal story drawn from history and silence.
What could these two shows possibly have in common?
A dusty little storefront theatre in Lubbock, Texas.
Back in 1987, just out of college, my wife, Sonya, and I opened The Actors Trading Post—a small but passionate theater in our hometown, where Buddy Holly’s ghost still lingers in the West Texas wind. One of our fifirst productions was Sam Shepard’s Fool for Love. One of the actors in that show? A young Andrew Fickman, who played “The Old Man,” delivering Shepard’s haunting monologues from the shadows.
Looking at our headshots from back then, we were just two young dreamers trying to make something happen in a place where theatre wasn’t always a sure thing. And now, nearly 40 years later, we both find ourselves Off-Broadway in the same season. That’s something special.
Andy’s journey has taken him from Lubbock to Los Angeles to the world stage. He’s directed hit films like She’s the Man and Parental Guidance, and helped transform Heathers—that cult classic of teen angst—into a sharp, satirical musical that’s become a global favorite. It continues to play at New World Stages.
My own path was a bit different. I earned a Ph.D. from Texas Tech, published books with the University of Michigan Press, Michigan State, and Alpha Books of New York, and eventually found my way back to the stage—drawn by the need to tell stories that are often overlooked.
My latest work, Undesirable Secrets, is one of those stories. As you know, it’s based on the true-life testimony of Anthony C. Acevedo, a Mexican American medic in World War II who was captured during the Battle of the Bulge and sent to the Nazi slave labor camp at Berga—alongside hundreds of Jewish American soldiers. Anthony was ordered by the U.S. Army not to speak of what happened. And so, for over 60 years, he kept that silence.
But eventually, he broke it. The diary of his experiences is now preserved at the U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum—and he became the first Mexican American to register as a concentration camp survivor in the museum’s Benjamin and Vladka Meed Registry.
The New York Times called his story “a significant moment in both Holocaust and Latino American history.” The Washington Post described it as “a deeply human account of war, trauma, and resilience.”
Undesirable Secrets will have its New York City premiere on August 24 at Theatre for the New City, as part of the Dream Up Festival, under the leadership of Executive Artistic Director Crystal Field. The production is co-produced by Danisarte—a remarkable NYC-based company committed to telling stories that elevate underrepresented voices—and the Anthony Acevedo Educational Foundation.
Please note: both the August 24 and August 28 performances are already sold out.
If you’d like to learn more about the production or reserve tickets for additional performances—including shows on August 26, 30, and 31—you can visit:
👉 www.ticketstoundesirablesecrets.com
It’s been nearly four decades since Andy and I worked together on Fool for Love. And now, our names appear on Off-Broadway marquees in the same city, in the same season. Lubbock to NYC—who would’ve guessed?
July 25, 2025: Bringing Undesirable Secrets to NYC--with Danisarte by Our Side
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This past summer, something quietly powerful happened in New York City. I had the honor of reading from my latest collection, Brown Son of Lorca: A Boy Reclaimed in Poems, Stories & Voice, at Danisarte’s “Deconstructing Lorca” celebration. It was a beautiful night—one of those rare gatherings where art and spirit seem to breathe together. It was there that I met Alicia Kaplan.
Alicia is not only the founder of Danisarte, but a celebrated actress and recipient of the Premio ACE (Latin ACE Award) from the Association of Latin Entertainment Critics of New York. And yet, in person, she carries all that with warmth, grace, and a generosity of spirit that makes you feel like you’ve known her forever. What struck me most was her unwavering dedication to the arts—especially to stories that have been silenced or marginalized. Danisarte’s mission is deeply rooted in creating original bilingual works that foster understanding across cultures and uplift underrepresented voices. In so many ways, Undesirable Secrets—a solo play based on the life of Anthony C. Acevedo, the first Mexican American registered as a Holocaust survivor—fits right into that legacy. So when Alicia reached out afterward and said she wanted Danisarte to join the NYC production as a co-producer, I was beyond honored. To have her belief in this story—and in me—means more than I can say. This play has been a labor of love and responsibility. Anthony Acevedo was a WWII medic who endured a Nazi slave labor camp and was ordered never to speak of what he saw. For 63 years, he obeyed. And then, finally, he broke his silence to bear witness—not for himself, but for the men who never made it home. Telling his story now, on a New York stage, with Alicia and Danisarte standing beside us, feels like a full-circle moment of healing, truth, and justice. To Alicia: thank you for your vision, your passion, and for welcoming this story into your city and your heart. I’m proud to call you a co-producer and even prouder to call you a friend. Performances of Undesirable Secrets begin this August at Theatre for the New City as part of the Dream Up Festival, with a special Off-Broadway performance at United Solo on November 1. For details and tickets, visit: www.TicketsToUndesirableSecrets.com And yes, that’s Alicia pictured with her Premio ACE Award—a well-earned recognition for a lifetime of lifting up stories that matter. --Rodolfo |
July 9, 2025: From La Nacional to Theatre for the New City: Honored, Humbled, and Heading Back to NYC
It’s been exactly one month since the release of Brown Son of Lorca: A Boy Reclaimed in Poems, Stories & Voice—and what a beautiful month it has been.
On June 9, I had the deep honor of reading from the collection and performing an excerpt in New York City at La Nacional, as part of Danisarte’s tribute to Federico García Lorca. The house was full. The energy was palpable. And to stand on that stage, reclaiming voice, memory, and language, while calling Lorca’s ghost into the room—it’s a moment I’ll carry with me always.
I’m especially grateful to Alicia Kaplan and the Danisarte family for creating such a powerful and affirming space. The work they do is vital. That night, every poem felt heard. Every silence felt lifted. And every book I donated to support Danisarte sold out.
And now—I’m going back.
I’m honored to share that my solo play Undesirable Secrets has been invited for a limited NYC run this August as part of the Dream Up Festival at Theatre for the New City, presented by Crystal Field (Artistic Director). This will mark the New York City premiere of the show before its official Off-Broadway debut at Theatre Row on November 1.
Dream Up Festival Performances (Cabaret Theatre, Theatre for the New City):
155 1st Avenue (at 10th St), New York, NY
August 24, 26, 28, 30 & 31
Tickets & Info: www.TicketsToUndesirableSecrets.com
To celebrate the unforgettable experience at La Nacional, I’ve put together a short slideshow below featuring just a few of the remarkable people I had the honor of meeting that evening. Their presence, support, and shared passion for story and memory made the night even more meaningful.
Thank you to everyone who continues to walk this journey with me.
– Rodolfo
On June 9, I had the deep honor of reading from the collection and performing an excerpt in New York City at La Nacional, as part of Danisarte’s tribute to Federico García Lorca. The house was full. The energy was palpable. And to stand on that stage, reclaiming voice, memory, and language, while calling Lorca’s ghost into the room—it’s a moment I’ll carry with me always.
I’m especially grateful to Alicia Kaplan and the Danisarte family for creating such a powerful and affirming space. The work they do is vital. That night, every poem felt heard. Every silence felt lifted. And every book I donated to support Danisarte sold out.
And now—I’m going back.
I’m honored to share that my solo play Undesirable Secrets has been invited for a limited NYC run this August as part of the Dream Up Festival at Theatre for the New City, presented by Crystal Field (Artistic Director). This will mark the New York City premiere of the show before its official Off-Broadway debut at Theatre Row on November 1.
Dream Up Festival Performances (Cabaret Theatre, Theatre for the New City):
155 1st Avenue (at 10th St), New York, NY
August 24, 26, 28, 30 & 31
Tickets & Info: www.TicketsToUndesirableSecrets.com
To celebrate the unforgettable experience at La Nacional, I’ve put together a short slideshow below featuring just a few of the remarkable people I had the honor of meeting that evening. Their presence, support, and shared passion for story and memory made the night even more meaningful.
Thank you to everyone who continues to walk this journey with me.
– Rodolfo
June 5, 2025: On the Eve of Lorca, NYC, and the Journey Ahead
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In just a few days, Brown Son of Lorca: A Boy Reclaimed in Poems, Stories & Voice will be officially released. It’s hard to believe. What began as private reckonings on memory and identity has become a book, a performance, and a calling. And on the evening of June 9, I’ll honor its debut the best way I know how—by performing selections live in New York City as part of Danisarte’s tribute to Federico García Lorca.
It’s a full-circle moment I never expected. And yet, here it is. The weeks since my last post have been filled with unexpected blessings and momentum. My solo play Undesirable Secrets—which premiered quietly in Texas last fall—is now heading to Theatre Row for its Off-Broadway debut on November 1 as part of the United Solo Festival. What began as a whisper is growing into something much larger. Chicago is alredy booked and there is talk of an earlier show in New York and inquiries are being made into performances in Detroit, San Antonio, and Los Angeles. Even more are in the works. To make it easier to keep up with everything, I’ve launched a central hub where you can quickly find links to tickets for all upcoming performances: TicketsToUndesirableSecrets.com This is more than a busy season. It’s a season of reclamation. Stories long silenced—mine, Anthony Acevedo’s, and others—are finally being told, shared, and heard. If you’ve supported me on this journey, thank you. If you're just discovering the work, welcome. There’s still time to pre-order the Kindle edition of Brown Son of Lorca, or plan to join us in person this fall. Let’s continue. More soon, from the road and the stage. – Rodolfo |
May 11, 2025: From Page to Stage: A Season of Words, Voice, and Reclamation
I’m thrilled to share that Brown Son of Lorca: A Boy Reclaimed in Poems, Stories & Voice is now available for pre-order on Amazon Kindle. This deeply personal collection—rooted in memory, identity, and the unspoken—will officially release on June 9, 2025, and I couldn’t have imagined a more meaningful way to celebrate its arrival than where I’ll be that very evening: onstage in New York City, presenting selections from the book.
That night, I’ll have the honor of reading three poems and performing a short theatrical piece from Brown Son of Lorca as part of Danisarte’s celebration of Federico García Lorca, held at La Nacional, a historic cultural space in Manhattan. Danisarte, under the artistic direction of the brilliant Alicia Kaplan, has long been a beacon for artists whose work speaks truth to power. Alicia’s dedication to Lorca’s legacy—and to ensuring voices like mine are heard—makes this more than a performance. It’s a homage to her dedication.
As if that weren’t enough, momentum continues to build around my solo play Undesirable Secrets. After being selected for performance at the United Solo Theatre Festival, I’ll be performing Undesirable Secrets Off-Broadway at Theatre Row on November 1, 2025. And I’m pleased to share that plans are already underway to bring the show to audiences in Chicago and Detroit—cities whose communities have deep connections to the play’s themes of memory, identity, and truth-telling.
This is a season of emergence. Of long-held stories stepping into the light. Of page meeting stage in ways I never could have imagined. If you’ve followed my work, thank you. If you’re just arriving—welcome. There’s much more to come.
Pre-order the Kindle edition of Brown Son of Lorca now:
Amazon Kindle – Pre-Order Now
Printed copies available June 9 from Caballo Press of Ann Arbor
Stay tuned for performance dates, tour stops, and more reflections from the road.
— Rodolfo
That night, I’ll have the honor of reading three poems and performing a short theatrical piece from Brown Son of Lorca as part of Danisarte’s celebration of Federico García Lorca, held at La Nacional, a historic cultural space in Manhattan. Danisarte, under the artistic direction of the brilliant Alicia Kaplan, has long been a beacon for artists whose work speaks truth to power. Alicia’s dedication to Lorca’s legacy—and to ensuring voices like mine are heard—makes this more than a performance. It’s a homage to her dedication.
As if that weren’t enough, momentum continues to build around my solo play Undesirable Secrets. After being selected for performance at the United Solo Theatre Festival, I’ll be performing Undesirable Secrets Off-Broadway at Theatre Row on November 1, 2025. And I’m pleased to share that plans are already underway to bring the show to audiences in Chicago and Detroit—cities whose communities have deep connections to the play’s themes of memory, identity, and truth-telling.
This is a season of emergence. Of long-held stories stepping into the light. Of page meeting stage in ways I never could have imagined. If you’ve followed my work, thank you. If you’re just arriving—welcome. There’s much more to come.
Pre-order the Kindle edition of Brown Son of Lorca now:
Amazon Kindle – Pre-Order Now
Printed copies available June 9 from Caballo Press of Ann Arbor
Stay tuned for performance dates, tour stops, and more reflections from the road.
— Rodolfo
April 24, 2025: A Journey of Words: Honored to Be Selected to Read at La Nacional, NYC
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There are moments in an artist’s life when something long held inside finally finds its place in the world—when private words, crafted quietly, are invited to breathe aloud. I am both humbled and thrilled to share that I have been invited to read three of my poems and a performance piece from my forthcoming collection Brown Son of Lorca, as part of a special celebration hosted by Danisarte in New York City.
This incredible opportunity was made possible by the renowned actress Alicia Kaplan, founder of Danisarte, who personally reached out to let me know I had been selected. Alicia has long been a force in championing voices that tell stories of cultural depth, social justice, and personal truth—through the arts. To have my work embraced by an organization with such a powerful mission is an honor I deeply cherish. The reading will take place on June 9th at La Nacional, one of New York’s oldest and most vibrant cultural institutions. For over 150 years, La Nacional—officially known as The Spanish Benevolent Society—has served as a gathering place for artists, thinkers, immigrants, and visionaries from Spain and across the Spanish-speaking world. Located in the heart of Manhattan, this historical space has seen generations of creative minds pass through its doors, including none other than Federico García Lorca himself. To perform in a place where Lorca once stayed and dreamed is both surreal and deeply moving for me. |
La Nacional is more than a venue; it is a living testament to cultural preservation, dialogue, and community. Founded in 1868, it has supported artists, provided shelter to newcomers, and fostered the arts in every form—from poetry and theatre to music and visual expression. Its mission resonates profoundly with my own journey as a writer and performer, especially as someone dedicated to exploring themes of identity, silence, and inheritance.
The pieces I will be reading are drawn from Brown Son of Lorca, a collection that has lived in fragments over the years—shaped by memory, family, and the long shadow of my upbringing in Lubbock, Texas. The poems are personal yet universal, touching on the tension between what we inherit and what we choose to become. They live in conversation with Lorca’s legacy, but also with my own path, as a son, a scholar, and a storyteller navigating silence, masculinity, and cultural roots.
I’m excited to share that Brown Son of Lorca will be published in early June to coincide with this special reading at La Nacional. The collection includes poetry, short stories, and a performance piece that reflect my journey as an artist and the many voices that have shaped me.
Taking a brief pause from ongoing rehearsals of my solo play Undesirable Secrets, and from the development of new works, this reading allows me to reconnect with the heart of why I write—to share, to listen, to be present in spaces where art and identity meet. Undesirable Secrets, based on the life of Holocaust survivor Anthony C. Acevedo, continues to push me as a performer. But this invitation, to simply read what I once thought no one might hear, reminds me of the quiet power of words themselves.
To Alicia Kaplan, to Danisarte, and to everyone who believes in lifting up voices from the margins—thank you. I am beyond grateful for this chance to be part of something so meaningful, in a place that has seen so many voices rise and echo.
If you’re in New York on June 9th, join us at La Nacional. Let’s honor Lorca, honor language, and honor the stories we carry.
The pieces I will be reading are drawn from Brown Son of Lorca, a collection that has lived in fragments over the years—shaped by memory, family, and the long shadow of my upbringing in Lubbock, Texas. The poems are personal yet universal, touching on the tension between what we inherit and what we choose to become. They live in conversation with Lorca’s legacy, but also with my own path, as a son, a scholar, and a storyteller navigating silence, masculinity, and cultural roots.
I’m excited to share that Brown Son of Lorca will be published in early June to coincide with this special reading at La Nacional. The collection includes poetry, short stories, and a performance piece that reflect my journey as an artist and the many voices that have shaped me.
Taking a brief pause from ongoing rehearsals of my solo play Undesirable Secrets, and from the development of new works, this reading allows me to reconnect with the heart of why I write—to share, to listen, to be present in spaces where art and identity meet. Undesirable Secrets, based on the life of Holocaust survivor Anthony C. Acevedo, continues to push me as a performer. But this invitation, to simply read what I once thought no one might hear, reminds me of the quiet power of words themselves.
To Alicia Kaplan, to Danisarte, and to everyone who believes in lifting up voices from the margins—thank you. I am beyond grateful for this chance to be part of something so meaningful, in a place that has seen so many voices rise and echo.
If you’re in New York on June 9th, join us at La Nacional. Let’s honor Lorca, honor language, and honor the stories we carry.
March 21, 2025: Thank You, Lubbock!
From the bottom of my heart, thank you to everyone who attended the Lubbock performances of Undesirable Secrets. Your presence, your support, and your heartfelt reactions meant the world to me. Returning to my hometown to tell Anthony Acevedo’s story was both an honor and a deeply personal experience. I’m truly grateful to have shared this journey with you.
As new performances are added across the country, I’ll be sure to share updates right here—so please stay tuned!
Thank you again, Lubbock—you made this homecoming one I’ll never forget.
With gratitude,
Rodolfo
As new performances are added across the country, I’ll be sure to share updates right here—so please stay tuned!
Thank you again, Lubbock—you made this homecoming one I’ll never forget.
With gratitude,
Rodolfo
March 6, 2025: Returning to Lubbock: A Homecoming with Undesirable Secrets
The stage is set for the North Texas A&M performance. Photo by Carala Doll.
There are moments in a creative career that feel like coming full circle. Next week, I get to experience one of those moments as I bring Undesirable Secrets—a project that has consumed my heart and soul—to Lubbock, Texas, my hometown.
Lubbock is where my storytelling journey began. It’s where I first fell in love with words, with performance, with the power of history and art to shape lives. It’s where I honed my craft before taking my work to stages, pages, and screens across the country. And now, after years of research, writing, and development, I am beyond honored to return to Lubbock to perform Undesirable Secrets—a play that, in many ways, feels like the most important story I have ever told.
Bringing a Forgotten Story to Life
Undesirable Secrets is more than just a one-man play—it is the story of Anthony Acevedo, a Mexican American WWII medic, Holocaust survivor, and U.S. POW whose experiences were buried in silence for decades. Captured by the Nazis during the Battle of the Bulge, Anthony and 350 American soldiers—including many Jewish GIs—were sent to the Nazi slave labor camp Berga. For 63 years, he kept his trauma hidden, ordered into silence by the U.S. Army. When he finally broke that silence, he changed history.
For me, telling Anthony’s story is both a responsibility and a privilege. This is a story of resilience, of survival, of the power of one man’s truth to shake the world. And performing this play in Lubbock—a place that shaped me into the writer, actor, and storyteller I am today—feels incredibly special.
Join Me in Lubbock for Two Special Performances
I invite you to be part of this experience as Undesirable Secrets takes the stage in Lubbock for two performances:
📍 Friday, March 14, 2025 – Aztlan Festival at Lubbock Civic Center
⏰ Time: 7:00 p.m. Tickets for this performance only.
📍 Sunday, March 16, 2025 – Fireside Theatre at the Louise Hopkins Underwood Center for the Arts
⏰ Time: 2:00 p.m. Tickets for this performance only.
A Story That Needs to Be Told
Lubbock, this is your chance to witness a forgotten chapter of history brought to life. Whether you’re a history buff, a theater lover, or someone who simply believes in the power of storytelling to heal and transform, Undesirable Secrets is a show that will stay with you long after the final words are spoken.
I can’t wait to share this journey with you. See you next week.
Rodolfo
Lubbock is where my storytelling journey began. It’s where I first fell in love with words, with performance, with the power of history and art to shape lives. It’s where I honed my craft before taking my work to stages, pages, and screens across the country. And now, after years of research, writing, and development, I am beyond honored to return to Lubbock to perform Undesirable Secrets—a play that, in many ways, feels like the most important story I have ever told.
Bringing a Forgotten Story to Life
Undesirable Secrets is more than just a one-man play—it is the story of Anthony Acevedo, a Mexican American WWII medic, Holocaust survivor, and U.S. POW whose experiences were buried in silence for decades. Captured by the Nazis during the Battle of the Bulge, Anthony and 350 American soldiers—including many Jewish GIs—were sent to the Nazi slave labor camp Berga. For 63 years, he kept his trauma hidden, ordered into silence by the U.S. Army. When he finally broke that silence, he changed history.
For me, telling Anthony’s story is both a responsibility and a privilege. This is a story of resilience, of survival, of the power of one man’s truth to shake the world. And performing this play in Lubbock—a place that shaped me into the writer, actor, and storyteller I am today—feels incredibly special.
Join Me in Lubbock for Two Special Performances
I invite you to be part of this experience as Undesirable Secrets takes the stage in Lubbock for two performances:
📍 Friday, March 14, 2025 – Aztlan Festival at Lubbock Civic Center
⏰ Time: 7:00 p.m. Tickets for this performance only.
📍 Sunday, March 16, 2025 – Fireside Theatre at the Louise Hopkins Underwood Center for the Arts
⏰ Time: 2:00 p.m. Tickets for this performance only.
A Story That Needs to Be Told
Lubbock, this is your chance to witness a forgotten chapter of history brought to life. Whether you’re a history buff, a theater lover, or someone who simply believes in the power of storytelling to heal and transform, Undesirable Secrets is a show that will stay with you long after the final words are spoken.
I can’t wait to share this journey with you. See you next week.
Rodolfo
February 14, 2025: Undesirable Secrets is Coming to My Hometown of Lubbock, Texas!
Following the Frisco Lakes performance with my wonderful sister, Carolina, and her husband, Steve, and her two sons, my nephews, Manuel and Jose. Love you all!
The stage is set for the performance at East Texas A&M University. Special thanks to Professor Jackie Rosenfeld--herself an accomplished playwright--for the invitation. What a stage it was!
Backstage with script, directorial, and production consultant William Doll and his wife, Carala. Thank you both for your support and all of your consideration! You're the best!
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Bringing Undesirable Secrets to my hometown of Lubbock, Texas is more than just another performance—it’s a full-circle moment.
Earlier this month, I had the privilege of performing preview shows at Frisco Lakes North Amenity Center and East Texas A&M University. These performances were invaluable in refining the show and connecting with audiences in an intimate setting. The response was deeply moving, and I was humbled by the feedback, including the words of Ramona Logan of Frisco Lakes Lifestyle Magazine, who wrote: "A masterpiece in the form of a one-man show… You will lose track of time during this non-stop… gut-wrenching play because Alvarado puts so much passion and emotion into his performance." To know that Anthony Acevedo’s story is resonating with audiences in such a powerful way means everything to me. Lubbock Performances Now, I have the incredible opportunity to bring Undesirable Secrets to Lubbock for two special performances: 📍 March 14, 2025 – Aztlan Dance Festival – Lubbock Civic Center (for tickets to this performance click here) 📍 March 16, 2025 – Fireside Theatre, Louise Hopkins Underwood Center for the Arts – (for tickets to this performance click here) To honor those who served, special pricing is available for veterans, active military, and their families. A Journey of Growth & Gratitude Every time I perform Undesirable Secrets, I learn something new—not just about Anthony Acevedo, but about the power of storytelling. Each audience brings a fresh perspective, a new energy, and a deeper appreciation for history’s forgotten voices. That’s why I want to take a moment to express my deepest gratitude to those who made our recent preview performances possible: 📍 Frisco Lakes North Amenity Center – February 4, 2025 (Private Preview) 📍 East Texas A&M University – February 5, 2025 (Special Performance for Theater Students) Both performances played an essential role in refining the show and reinforcing why this story matters. A heartfelt thank you to:
Why This Story Matters This isn’t just about history. It’s about the voices we haven’t heard, the stories we’ve overlooked, and the legacies that deserve recognition. I hope you’ll join me in Lubbock for this special homecoming. Let’s honor Anthony Acevedo, the Forgotten Soldiers of Berga, and the resilience of those who refuse to be silenced. 🎭 To book a performance, click here. See you in Lubbock! — Rodolfo |
February 2, 2025: Exciting Preview Performances of Undesirable Secrets
I’m thrilled to announce that in the coming week, I will be presenting special preview performances of Undesirable Secrets at two incredible venues: Frisco Lakes North Amenity Center and East Texas A&M University. These performances mark an important step in bringing this deeply personal and historical story to wider audiences.
As many of you know, Undesirable Secrets is a one-person drama I wrote and will perform, based on the true story of Anthony Acevedo—a WWII combat medic, former POW, and the first Mexican American registered as a Holocaust survivor. The play delves into Acevedo’s harrowing experiences in a Nazi concentration camp, his lifelong battle with PTSD, and his struggle to reconcile a painful past, including the trauma of an abusive father.
About the Preview PerformancesThe first preview will take place at Frisco Lakes North Amenity Center, offering a unique opportunity to share this story with a community eager to engage with history and live theater. This venue provides an intimate setting that will allow audiences to connect deeply with Anthony Acevedo’s journey of survival, resilience, and remembrance.
The second preview is a special performance for theater acting students at East Texas A&M University. I’m particularly excited about this performance, as it offers students a firsthand experience with a solo theatrical production—an invaluable opportunity for those studying acting, storytelling, and the power of live performance. Following the play, I’ll engage in a talk-back session where students can ask questions and discuss the themes, performance techniques, and historical significance of the piece.
AcknowledgmentsThese preview performances wouldn’t be possible without the support and dedication of several incredible individuals and organizations. My deepest gratitude to William Doll, who has provided invaluable guidance and support throughout this journey. A heartfelt thank you to Rebeca Acevedo-Carlin and Ernesto Acevedo, along with the Anthony Acevedo Educational Foundation, for trusting me with Anthony’s legacy and helping to ensure his story reaches as many people as possible. I also want to extend a special thanks to Jackie Rosenfeld, professor at East Texas A&M University, for making this special performance for theater students a reality.
These previews are an important milestone as we prepare for the full production of Undesirable Secrets in Lubbock at the Aztlan Dance Festival on March 14, 2025 and the Louise Hopkins Underwood Center for the Arts on March 16, 2025. The dance festival performance is for participants. Ticket will be available at the door. For tickets to the Louise Hopkins Underwood performance click here.
If you’re in the area for either of these shows, I would love to see you there!
Stay tuned for more updates as we continue this journey of bringing Anthony Acevedo’s powerful story to audiences across the country.
#UndesirableSecrets #WWIIHistory #LiveTheater #AnthonyAcevedo #FriscoLakes #EastTexasAM #LatinoHistory #Resilience #SoloPerformance #TheatreEducation
As many of you know, Undesirable Secrets is a one-person drama I wrote and will perform, based on the true story of Anthony Acevedo—a WWII combat medic, former POW, and the first Mexican American registered as a Holocaust survivor. The play delves into Acevedo’s harrowing experiences in a Nazi concentration camp, his lifelong battle with PTSD, and his struggle to reconcile a painful past, including the trauma of an abusive father.
About the Preview PerformancesThe first preview will take place at Frisco Lakes North Amenity Center, offering a unique opportunity to share this story with a community eager to engage with history and live theater. This venue provides an intimate setting that will allow audiences to connect deeply with Anthony Acevedo’s journey of survival, resilience, and remembrance.
The second preview is a special performance for theater acting students at East Texas A&M University. I’m particularly excited about this performance, as it offers students a firsthand experience with a solo theatrical production—an invaluable opportunity for those studying acting, storytelling, and the power of live performance. Following the play, I’ll engage in a talk-back session where students can ask questions and discuss the themes, performance techniques, and historical significance of the piece.
AcknowledgmentsThese preview performances wouldn’t be possible without the support and dedication of several incredible individuals and organizations. My deepest gratitude to William Doll, who has provided invaluable guidance and support throughout this journey. A heartfelt thank you to Rebeca Acevedo-Carlin and Ernesto Acevedo, along with the Anthony Acevedo Educational Foundation, for trusting me with Anthony’s legacy and helping to ensure his story reaches as many people as possible. I also want to extend a special thanks to Jackie Rosenfeld, professor at East Texas A&M University, for making this special performance for theater students a reality.
These previews are an important milestone as we prepare for the full production of Undesirable Secrets in Lubbock at the Aztlan Dance Festival on March 14, 2025 and the Louise Hopkins Underwood Center for the Arts on March 16, 2025. The dance festival performance is for participants. Ticket will be available at the door. For tickets to the Louise Hopkins Underwood performance click here.
If you’re in the area for either of these shows, I would love to see you there!
Stay tuned for more updates as we continue this journey of bringing Anthony Acevedo’s powerful story to audiences across the country.
#UndesirableSecrets #WWIIHistory #LiveTheater #AnthonyAcevedo #FriscoLakes #EastTexasAM #LatinoHistory #Resilience #SoloPerformance #TheatreEducation
December 14, 2024: A Season of Stories: From Stage to Study and Beyond
Taking a break from rehearsing the role of Anthony Acevedo in my one-person stage play, "Undesirable Secrets," by assisting at the annual Ann Arbor-Ypsi Regional Chamber of Commerce Year-Ender as a volunteer for one of my fav non-profits, the Ypsilanti Food Co-op.
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Hello everyone,
It has indeed been some time since my last blog post, and I'm thrilled to catch you up on the myriad of projects and events that have filled my calendar and my heart these past months. I am currently deep in preparations for a very special role—portraying Anthony Acevedo in my one-person show "Undesirable Secrets." This role is particularly close to my heart, as it encapsulates the profound struggles and triumphs of a truly remarkable individual. Rehearsals are set to kick off in Michigan, and from there, we'll move to the Dallas-Fort Worth area for tryout performances in early February. The pinnacle of this tour will be a performance, which is part of the Viva Aztlan Dance Festival 2025, in my hometown at the Lubbock Civic Center on March 14, 2025. I am filled with anticipation and gratitude for the opportunity to bring this story to life on stage in front of my home community. In between rehearsals, I've been immersing myself in several writing projects that cater to both young readers and the academically inclined. I'm currently crafting a new children's book that explores themes of courage and curiosity, designed to spark young imaginations. Alongside this, I am developing a novel that weaves complex character narratives with rich historical contexts, promising to be a compelling read. My academic ventures continue with a focus on the history of Latinos in the United States, particularly their influential roles in theatrical arts. These studies aim to illuminate overlooked contributions and foster a deeper appreciation of cultural diversity in American history. Beyond my writing and acting, I remain committed to my community through ongoing involvement with the Ypsi Food Co-op. As a board member and leader of the co-op’s 50th Anniversary Committee, I am deeply engaged in planning celebratory events that honor our legacy and inspire future generations of community-oriented work. As we approach the festive season, preparations are also underway to welcome a house full of family for the Christmas holidays. This time of year always brings a special blend of joy and nostalgia, reminding me of the importance of family, tradition, and the simple pleasures of togetherness. I want to express my deepest gratitude to all of you—friends, family, and fans—who have supported my endeavors. Your encouragement and engagement mean the world to me and are vital to the success of these artistic and scholarly pursuits. Please stay tuned for more updates as this season unfolds. Whether it’s on stage, in the pages of a book, or through the activities of our local co-op, I look forward to continuing this journey with you all. Warmest regards, Rodolfo |
October 14, 2024: Bringing "Undesirable Secrets" to Life: A Journey from Script to Stage
I am thrilled to announce a major milestone for "Undesirable Secrets," a project that has captured my dedication and passion. The script is finally complete, and we are moving into rehearsals with a sense of deep commitment and anticipation.
This monodrama, which vividly portrays the harrowing and heroic life of Anthony Acevedo, owes a great deal to the invaluable contributions of Rebeca Acevedo-Carlin and Ernesto Acevedo from the Anthony Acevedo Educational Foundation. Their willingness to share the painful memories and personal stories that their father recounted, as well as their own firsthand experiences—like their father's night terrors—has been instrumental in crafting a script that is both authentic and profoundly moving.
I am also cast in the dual roles of narrator and Anthony, which allows me a unique opportunity to bring depth to my writing through performance. This is not my first experience performing a monodrama I've written; some of you may remember "El Norte," which explored similar themes through different narratives and was also published and performed widely.
Our directors, Bill Doll and Pete Kuzov, who also serve as script consultants, along with Pete's additional role as a producer, have been critical in refining the script to its current form. Their expertise and insights have helped to hone the narrative, ensuring that it resonates with truth and emotional clarity. Robin Wright, who produced the multi-cast version of the play at the Holocaust Memorial Museum of San Antonio earlier this year, has also brought a valuable perspective to the production.
As rehearsals begin, our collective excitement is tempered with the responsibility of telling this story with the respect and intensity it deserves. "Undesirable Secrets" is more than just a play; it is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and a tribute to Anthony's legacy, which continues to inspire and educate.
Thank you all for your continued support and encouragement. This journey from page to stage is not just about creating a play but about keeping alive the memory of those who have endured unimaginable hardships. Stay tuned for more updates as we bring this powerful story to audiences.
Warm regards, Rodolfo
This monodrama, which vividly portrays the harrowing and heroic life of Anthony Acevedo, owes a great deal to the invaluable contributions of Rebeca Acevedo-Carlin and Ernesto Acevedo from the Anthony Acevedo Educational Foundation. Their willingness to share the painful memories and personal stories that their father recounted, as well as their own firsthand experiences—like their father's night terrors—has been instrumental in crafting a script that is both authentic and profoundly moving.
I am also cast in the dual roles of narrator and Anthony, which allows me a unique opportunity to bring depth to my writing through performance. This is not my first experience performing a monodrama I've written; some of you may remember "El Norte," which explored similar themes through different narratives and was also published and performed widely.
Our directors, Bill Doll and Pete Kuzov, who also serve as script consultants, along with Pete's additional role as a producer, have been critical in refining the script to its current form. Their expertise and insights have helped to hone the narrative, ensuring that it resonates with truth and emotional clarity. Robin Wright, who produced the multi-cast version of the play at the Holocaust Memorial Museum of San Antonio earlier this year, has also brought a valuable perspective to the production.
As rehearsals begin, our collective excitement is tempered with the responsibility of telling this story with the respect and intensity it deserves. "Undesirable Secrets" is more than just a play; it is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and a tribute to Anthony's legacy, which continues to inspire and educate.
Thank you all for your continued support and encouragement. This journey from page to stage is not just about creating a play but about keeping alive the memory of those who have endured unimaginable hardships. Stay tuned for more updates as we bring this powerful story to audiences.
Warm regards, Rodolfo
September 4, 2024: A Transformative Journey: "Undesirable Secrets" Workshop in Santa Fe
With co-directors, Pete Kuzov (right) and William Doll after the first day of workshopping "Undesirable Secrets."
With Pete Kuzov at his home in Santa Fe getting down to the hard work of refining "Undesirable Secrets."
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Last week, the vibrant city of Santa Fe became the backdrop for a pivotal moment in my career as a playwright and, potentially, as an actor. I had the immense privilege of workshopping my script "Undesirable Secrets" at the intimate Teatro Paraguas black box theatre, surrounded by a team of incredibly talented individuals who brought their passion and expertise to the table.
The workshop was attended by esteemed co-directors William Doll and Pete Kuzov, who also serves as the co-producer alongside Robin Long. The first night was especially memorable for me as I performed the script. The feedback was overwhelmingly positive, and I am thrilled to share that Bill and Pete are considering me for the role of Anthony Acevedo in the upcoming production. This opportunity to embody such a profound character is both an honor and a challenge that I am eager to embrace. Throughout our sessions, we delved deep into the script, making crucial edits that enhanced the monodrama's message about the power of breaking one's silence when a secret is hurting them inside. This process not only refined the script but also reinforced the emotional impact of Anthony's story. I must extend a heartfelt thank you to Pete and his daughters for their incredible hospitality during our stay, which made the intense work all the more enjoyable. Their generosity and support played a crucial role in the success of this workshop. Special thanks also to Rebeca Acevedo-Carlin and Ernesto Acevedo from the Anthony Acevedo Educational Foundation for entrusting us with such a significant and sensitive story. It is our collective aim to honor Anthony's legacy with the respect and dignity it deserves. This workshop in Santa Fe was not just a step forward in the production of "Undesirable Secrets"; it was a reaffirmation of my commitment to telling stories that matter. Stories that challenge us, heal us, and connect us more deeply to our shared humanity. Stay tuned for more updates as we continue to develop this project and bring the incredible story of Anthony Acevedo to audiences around the world. Thank you for your continued support and encouragement—it truly means the world to me. Warm regards, Rodolfo |
August 15, 2024: A New Chapter Unfolds: Workshop Readthrough of Undesirable Secrets Monodrama
As we approach the final week of August, I am thrilled to announce the upcoming workshop readthrough of Undesirable Secrets, a monodrama that holds a deeply personal significance for me. This compelling piece, based on the life of Anthony C. Acevedo, a courageous WWII medic and Holocaust survivor, has been a journey of discovery and transformation. Initially conceived as a full-length play, Undesirable Secrets has evolved into a monodrama, a format that I believe amplifies the emotional immediacy of Anthony's story, bringing his experiences to life in an intimate and profoundly moving way.
The decision to transition Undesirable Secrets from a multi-character play to a monodrama came after the successful readthrough held earlier this year in San Antonio. The feedback we received, combined with a desire to heighten the personal connection between the audience and Anthony’s narrative, inspired this change. The monodrama format allows for a more direct and immersive experience, with Anthony himself portraying not only his journey but also the characters who shaped his life. This approach brings the audience closer to the raw emotions, challenges, and triumphs that defined Anthony's remarkable story.
This workshop readthrough in Santa Fe, New Mexico, is a critical step in refining the monodrama ahead of its full production in 2025. It will provide an opportunity for feedback, exploration, and collaboration with an incredibly talented team of artists and creatives. I am eager to see how the monodrama resonates with the workshop audience and to further hone the piece into a work that does justice to Anthony Acevedo’s legacy and the Forgotten Soldiers of Berga.
I invite you to stay connected as we embark on this exciting phase of development. The workshop readthrough is just the beginning, and I look forward to sharing more updates, insights, and behind-the-scenes glimpses as Undesirable Secrets continues to take shape. This monodrama is more than just a play; it is a tribute to resilience, courage, and the enduring power of truth. I am honored to bring Anthony’s story to the stage. and thankful to Rebeca Acevedo-Carlin and Ernesto Acevedo of the Anthony Acevedo Educational Foundation for allowing me the great honor and privilege of bringing their father's emotional journey to life.
The decision to transition Undesirable Secrets from a multi-character play to a monodrama came after the successful readthrough held earlier this year in San Antonio. The feedback we received, combined with a desire to heighten the personal connection between the audience and Anthony’s narrative, inspired this change. The monodrama format allows for a more direct and immersive experience, with Anthony himself portraying not only his journey but also the characters who shaped his life. This approach brings the audience closer to the raw emotions, challenges, and triumphs that defined Anthony's remarkable story.
This workshop readthrough in Santa Fe, New Mexico, is a critical step in refining the monodrama ahead of its full production in 2025. It will provide an opportunity for feedback, exploration, and collaboration with an incredibly talented team of artists and creatives. I am eager to see how the monodrama resonates with the workshop audience and to further hone the piece into a work that does justice to Anthony Acevedo’s legacy and the Forgotten Soldiers of Berga.
I invite you to stay connected as we embark on this exciting phase of development. The workshop readthrough is just the beginning, and I look forward to sharing more updates, insights, and behind-the-scenes glimpses as Undesirable Secrets continues to take shape. This monodrama is more than just a play; it is a tribute to resilience, courage, and the enduring power of truth. I am honored to bring Anthony’s story to the stage. and thankful to Rebeca Acevedo-Carlin and Ernesto Acevedo of the Anthony Acevedo Educational Foundation for allowing me the great honor and privilege of bringing their father's emotional journey to life.
July 30, 2025: An Awesome Afternoon of Mystery and Culture at Brighton Library
With my hosts, Sarah, and volunteer, Maebelle, at the Brighton District Library!
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This past weekend, I had the pleasure of presenting "Perla Garcia and the Mystery of La Llorona" at the Brighton Library. The event, held in the afternoon, drew a crowd of curious children accompanied by their parents, making for a cozy and engaging gathering.
From the outset, I was warmly welcomed by my host, Sarah, whose organization and care ensured everything ran smoothly. Alongside her, Maebelle, a volunteer, provided invaluable support throughout the presentation. Their teamwork was instrumental in creating a friendly and supportive atmosphere that enhanced our time together. The presentation explored the intriguing tale of Perla Garcia as she unravels the mystery of La Llorona, integrating elements of cultural heritage and suspense. The children, attentive and eager, were thoroughly engaged, and the presence of their parents added a wonderful dynamic to the discussion. It was rewarding to see such interaction and interest from the audience, reflecting the universal appeal of these enduring cultural stories. As we delved into the story, the insightful questions from our young audience were particularly enlightening, showcasing their keen interest and the impact of sharing such rich narratives. The afternoon was not just about storytelling but about fostering a deeper appreciation for cultural heritage among the next generation. I am thankful to the Brighton Library, to Sarah and Maebelle, and to all the families who spent their afternoon with me. Your participation made this event special. I look forward to future opportunities to explore and share these meaningful stories together. Thank you, Brighton, for a lovely afternoon and for keeping the spirit of storytelling vibrant in your community. |
July 24, 2025: Connecting with Young Minds and Unveiling Mysteries: From Riverside Arts Center to Brighton's Public Library
"After sharing a moment of magical storytelling with the bright young minds at Riverside Arts Center. Together, we're exploring the power of stories to inspire and teach. It’s moments like these that fuel my passion for bringing history and culture alive for the next generation. □✨ #Storytelling #YouthEngagement #CulturalHeritage"
Last week's visit to the Riverside Arts Center was an unforgettable experience, filled with the vibrant energy of eager young minds. Hosted by my daughter Nichelle, the lead counselor at the camp, I had the pleasure of interacting with a wonderful group of children who brought endless enthusiasm and curiosity. It’s always a joy to see the arts making such a profound impact on the next generation.
During my time there, I shared stories that blend cultural heritage with exciting adventures, aiming to spark a love for storytelling and history in each child. Seeing their bright eyes and hearing their thoughtful questions reaffirmed my belief in the power of narrative to inspire and educate. This visit was not just about storytelling; it was a heartfelt reminder of why I write—to connect, to educate, and to enrich young lives.
Looking ahead, I am thrilled to announce my next engagement this Saturday, July 27th, at the Brighton Library in Brighton, MI, where I will be presenting “Perla Garcia and the Mystery of La Llorona.” This program is especially dear to me as it delves into a rich tapestry of folklore intertwined with a thrilling detective story, designed to captivate and educate both young and older audiences alike.
“Perla Garcia and the Mystery of La Llorona” is more than just a tale of intrigue; it’s an exploration of cultural identity and the power of myth in shaping our understanding of the world. I look forward to sharing this adventure with the Brighton community, sparking discussions, and perhaps, kindling a lifelong interest in the mysteries of our cultural folklore.
Join me this Saturday for an engaging session at the Brighton Library as we unravel the mystery of La Llorona together. It promises to be an enriching experience for all attendees, filled with suspense, learning, and the joy of discovery.
Thank you for your continued support and enthusiasm for my work. I can't wait to see many familiar and new faces this weekend. Your engagement and feedback drive my passion for bringing these stories to life.
Warm regards, Rodolfo
July 14, 2025: From Full-Length Play to Monodrama: The Evolution of Undesirable Secrets
As a playwright, one of the most rewarding and challenging aspects of my craft is adapting stories to different formats, ensuring they resonate with audiences in new and profound ways. Today, I am thrilled to share the exciting journey of transforming my full-length play, "Undesirable Secrets," into a powerful monodrama titled "Betrayed!"
The original play, "Undesirable Secrets," delved into the life of Anthony Acevedo, a heroic WWII medic and the first Mexican American to register as a Holocaust survivor. While the full-length format allowed for an extensive exploration of Anthony's experiences, I felt a monodrama would offer a more intimate, intense, and focused portrayal of his story. This format, where a single actor embodies multiple characters, provides a unique opportunity to delve deeper into Anthony's psyche and the emotional landscape of his life.
Adapting "Undesirable Secrets" into "Betrayed!" has been a meticulous and rewarding process. Stripping the narrative down to its core essence, I aimed to capture the raw, unfiltered emotions that defined Anthony's journey. The monodrama format places the spotlight solely on Anthony, allowing audiences to connect with his story on a personal level. This adaptation highlights the themes of resilience, betrayal, and the indomitable human spirit in a way that is both compelling and profoundly moving.
In addition to this exciting adaptation, I am delighted to announce that I will be presenting "Perla Garcia and the Mystery of La Llorona" at the Riverside Arts Center in my hometown of Ypsilanti, MI. This special event is for children attending a day camp and will take place this Friday. "Perla Garcia and the Mystery of La Llorona" is a story that weaves together cultural heritage and thrilling adventure, offering young audiences a captivating and educational experience. I am looking forward to sharing this tale and engaging with the children in my community.
As I prepare for the read-through and workshop of "Betrayed!" in Santa Fe at the end of August 2024, I am filled with anticipation and excitement for what lies ahead. The journey from a full-length play to a monodrama has been transformative, and I cannot wait to bring Anthony Acevedo's story to life on stage throughout 2025.
Thank you for joining me on this remarkable journey. Stay tuned for more updates on "Betrayed!" and my other projects. Your support and encouragement mean the world to me.
Warm regards, Rodolfo
The original play, "Undesirable Secrets," delved into the life of Anthony Acevedo, a heroic WWII medic and the first Mexican American to register as a Holocaust survivor. While the full-length format allowed for an extensive exploration of Anthony's experiences, I felt a monodrama would offer a more intimate, intense, and focused portrayal of his story. This format, where a single actor embodies multiple characters, provides a unique opportunity to delve deeper into Anthony's psyche and the emotional landscape of his life.
Adapting "Undesirable Secrets" into "Betrayed!" has been a meticulous and rewarding process. Stripping the narrative down to its core essence, I aimed to capture the raw, unfiltered emotions that defined Anthony's journey. The monodrama format places the spotlight solely on Anthony, allowing audiences to connect with his story on a personal level. This adaptation highlights the themes of resilience, betrayal, and the indomitable human spirit in a way that is both compelling and profoundly moving.
In addition to this exciting adaptation, I am delighted to announce that I will be presenting "Perla Garcia and the Mystery of La Llorona" at the Riverside Arts Center in my hometown of Ypsilanti, MI. This special event is for children attending a day camp and will take place this Friday. "Perla Garcia and the Mystery of La Llorona" is a story that weaves together cultural heritage and thrilling adventure, offering young audiences a captivating and educational experience. I am looking forward to sharing this tale and engaging with the children in my community.
As I prepare for the read-through and workshop of "Betrayed!" in Santa Fe at the end of August 2024, I am filled with anticipation and excitement for what lies ahead. The journey from a full-length play to a monodrama has been transformative, and I cannot wait to bring Anthony Acevedo's story to life on stage throughout 2025.
Thank you for joining me on this remarkable journey. Stay tuned for more updates on "Betrayed!" and my other projects. Your support and encouragement mean the world to me.
Warm regards, Rodolfo
May 3, 2024: Bringing History to Life: The Anthony Acevedo Experience
Recently, I had the distinct pleasure of presenting "The Extraordinary Life of Anthony C. Acevedo and The Forgotten Soldiers of Berga" at the Plymouth District Library in Plymouth, Michigan. Hosted by the gracious Holly Hibner, Adult Services Coordinator, the evening unfolded as a poignant tribute to some of World War II's unsung heroes.
My presentation, developed from my play "Undesirable Secrets," delves deep into the heart and hardships of Anthony Acevedo, a World War II medic and the first Mexican American to register as a concentration camp survivor. Through immersive storytelling, I aim to bridge the gap between past and present, allowing the audience to feel the weight of history in their hands. At Plymouth, the dramatic narration and the visual tribute of red, white, and blue dog tags personalized the stark realities faced by soldiers at Berga, moving many in the audience to tears.
Feedback from the event was overwhelmingly positive. Holly Hibner remarked, "Dr. Alvarado's dramatic storytelling style created an 'immersive historical journey' that was both informational and incredibly emotional." She highlighted the program as a celebration and homage to the heroes of Berga and commended the depth of research and engagement in my presentation style. Her endorsement was heartening: "We wholeheartedly recommend this program, and in fact, any program presented by Dr. Rodolfo Alvarado!"
For those who yearn to connect more profoundly with our shared past, my presentation not only recounts history but invokes the raw emotions and challenging decisions faced by those who lived through it. It is more than a history lesson; it is an emotional journey that resonates with our collective humanity, promoting historical awareness and empathy.
If you are looking for a unique and impactful addition to your next educational or commemorative event, I invite you to host this presentation. To explore the possibility of bringing "The Extraordinary Life of Anthony C. Acevedo and The Forgotten Soldiers of Berga" to your venue, please reach out. Together, we can ensure that the lessons and legacies of our past continue to enlighten and inspire.
My presentation, developed from my play "Undesirable Secrets," delves deep into the heart and hardships of Anthony Acevedo, a World War II medic and the first Mexican American to register as a concentration camp survivor. Through immersive storytelling, I aim to bridge the gap between past and present, allowing the audience to feel the weight of history in their hands. At Plymouth, the dramatic narration and the visual tribute of red, white, and blue dog tags personalized the stark realities faced by soldiers at Berga, moving many in the audience to tears.
Feedback from the event was overwhelmingly positive. Holly Hibner remarked, "Dr. Alvarado's dramatic storytelling style created an 'immersive historical journey' that was both informational and incredibly emotional." She highlighted the program as a celebration and homage to the heroes of Berga and commended the depth of research and engagement in my presentation style. Her endorsement was heartening: "We wholeheartedly recommend this program, and in fact, any program presented by Dr. Rodolfo Alvarado!"
For those who yearn to connect more profoundly with our shared past, my presentation not only recounts history but invokes the raw emotions and challenging decisions faced by those who lived through it. It is more than a history lesson; it is an emotional journey that resonates with our collective humanity, promoting historical awareness and empathy.
If you are looking for a unique and impactful addition to your next educational or commemorative event, I invite you to host this presentation. To explore the possibility of bringing "The Extraordinary Life of Anthony C. Acevedo and The Forgotten Soldiers of Berga" to your venue, please reach out. Together, we can ensure that the lessons and legacies of our past continue to enlighten and inspire.
March 3, 2024: Bringing History to the Screen: "Los Repatriados"and its Pilot, "The North Star"
In today's entertainment landscape, where storytelling is a powerful medium for historical reflection and social commentary, my latest project, "Los Repatriados," aims to illuminate a poignant chapter from the Great Depression era. This limited series for television streaming services begins with the pilot episode titled "The North Star," which delves into the turbulent journeys of Mexicans and Mexican Americans forcibly repatriated to Mexico during a challenging economic period in American history.
"Los Repatriados" explores themes of resilience, identity, and the struggle for belonging through the lens of those who found themselves uprooted and transported by train to a homeland some barely recognized. Crafted with the assistance of Juan Daniel Sosa-Coronado, this series aims to bring individual stories of hardship and triumph against a broader historical backdrop to life.
The pilot episode, "The North Star," has recently been recognized as a finalist at the 2024 Los Angeles International Screenplay Awards and the Scriptmatix Pilot Season Awards. This recognition underscores the script's emotional depth and its relevance to today's audiences, highlighting the industry's interest in narratives that challenge and inspire.
As we prepare to bring "Los Repatriados" to screens, we are currently seeking production partners and collaborators who are passionate about producing impactful historical dramas. The interest in this project has been promising, and we are eager to expand our team with individuals and organizations keen on exploring these untold stories. If you are interested in being a part of this exciting venture, please reach out to discuss potential collaborations.
"Los Repatriados" explores themes of resilience, identity, and the struggle for belonging through the lens of those who found themselves uprooted and transported by train to a homeland some barely recognized. Crafted with the assistance of Juan Daniel Sosa-Coronado, this series aims to bring individual stories of hardship and triumph against a broader historical backdrop to life.
The pilot episode, "The North Star," has recently been recognized as a finalist at the 2024 Los Angeles International Screenplay Awards and the Scriptmatix Pilot Season Awards. This recognition underscores the script's emotional depth and its relevance to today's audiences, highlighting the industry's interest in narratives that challenge and inspire.
As we prepare to bring "Los Repatriados" to screens, we are currently seeking production partners and collaborators who are passionate about producing impactful historical dramas. The interest in this project has been promising, and we are eager to expand our team with individuals and organizations keen on exploring these untold stories. If you are interested in being a part of this exciting venture, please reach out to discuss potential collaborations.
January 24, 2024: Celebrating the Success of 'Undesirable Secrets': A Heartfelt Thank You to All!
What a remarkable evening it was on January 21, 2024! The air was filled with anticipation, the seats were filled with eager faces, and the stage was set for something truly extraordinary. Our read-through of 'Undesirable Secrets' at the Barshop Jewish Community Center of San Antonio was an unforgettable journey through history and a heartfelt celebration of artistry.
I want to extend my heartfelt gratitude to each and every person who contributed to this remarkable evening. Your dedication and passion brought 'Undesirable Secrets' to life, and the result was nothing short of spectacular.
The heart and soul of 'Undesirable Secrets' lie in the remarkable performances and dedicated work of our cast and crew. Each of you contributed to making this reading a truly unforgettable experience.
Special Announcement: Before the reading began, we received exciting news that the Holocaust Memorial Museum of San Antonio has acquired the rights to be the first to produce the play. This remarkable journey is far from over, and we can't wait to see 'Undesirable Secrets' come to life on the stage before the end of the year!
Once again, I want to express my deepest gratitude to each of you for your contributions, dedication, and unwavering support. Together, we are making history come alive through art, and I couldn't be more excited about what the future holds.
Photo: Left to Right: Phil Marzec, Pete Kuzov, AJ Erives, Luiz Munoz, Bryce Real, Scott Liebowitz, Brian Hodges, and Dolores Godonez. Kneeling: Robin Robinson, Eric Joshua Valle, Arianna Gonzalez, and Angela Cavada.
I want to extend my heartfelt gratitude to each and every person who contributed to this remarkable evening. Your dedication and passion brought 'Undesirable Secrets' to life, and the result was nothing short of spectacular.
- Leslie Met and Robin Long: To Leslie Met, the director of the Holocaust Memorial Museum of San Antonio, and her invaluable assistant, Robin Long, the producer of the show, thank you for your unwavering support and commitment. Your dedication was instrumental in making this event a resounding success.
- Morgan Yoshimura: A special thank you to Morgan Yoshimura of the San Antonio Public Library for her invaluable contributions. Your commitment to cultural awareness and education played a vital role in the event's success.
- Rebeca Acevedo-Carlin and Ernesto Acevedo: My heartfelt appreciation goes to Anthony's children, Rebeca Acevedo-Carlin and Ernesto Acevedo, for their blessing and continued support. Your presence added a deep sense of meaning to the occasion.
- Bill Doll: I want to express my sincere gratitude to Bill Doll for his exceptional direction and invaluable assistance in moving the script forward. Your guidance was instrumental in bringing 'Undesirable Secrets' to life.
The heart and soul of 'Undesirable Secrets' lie in the remarkable performances and dedicated work of our cast and crew. Each of you contributed to making this reading a truly unforgettable experience.
- Luis Muñoz: Your portrayal of Anthony was nothing short of brilliant, leaving an indelible mark on everyone present.
- Ensemble Cast: To Eric Joshua Valle, Arianna Gonzalez, AJ Erives, Phil Marzec, Bryce Real, Brian Hodges, Scott Liebowitz, Pete Kuzov, Dolores Godonez, and Angela V. Cavada, your exceptional performances added depth and emotion to the narrative.
- Robin Robinson and Morgan Brown: Special thanks to Robin Robinson for narrating the play and to Morgan Brown for handling the slideshow and music with grace and professionalism.
Special Announcement: Before the reading began, we received exciting news that the Holocaust Memorial Museum of San Antonio has acquired the rights to be the first to produce the play. This remarkable journey is far from over, and we can't wait to see 'Undesirable Secrets' come to life on the stage before the end of the year!
Once again, I want to express my deepest gratitude to each of you for your contributions, dedication, and unwavering support. Together, we are making history come alive through art, and I couldn't be more excited about what the future holds.
Photo: Left to Right: Phil Marzec, Pete Kuzov, AJ Erives, Luiz Munoz, Bryce Real, Scott Liebowitz, Brian Hodges, and Dolores Godonez. Kneeling: Robin Robinson, Eric Joshua Valle, Arianna Gonzalez, and Angela Cavada.
January 17, 2024: The Curtain Rises: A Journey to San Antonio for 'Undesirable Secrets'
Hello everyone!
As I pack for San Antonio, Texas, the air around me crackles with excitement! On January 21st, a dream long in the making will unfold - the read-through of 'Undesirable Secrets,' a play exploring the incredible story of Anthony Acevedo and the Forgotten Soldiers of Berga.
A huge thank you is in order for Leslie Met, the director of the Holocaust Memorial Museum of San Antonio, and her assistant, Robin Long, the powerhouse producer of our show. Their support has been nothing short of inspiring. Also, a big shout-out to Morgan Yoshimura of the San Antonio Public Library for her invaluable contributions. Alongside the Anthony Acevedo Foundation, these organizations are the bedrock of this event.
Special thanks are also due to Rebeca Acevedo-Carlin and Ernesto Acevedo, Anthony's children, for their blessing and support. Their involvement brings a deep, personal touch to our endeavor.
And let's talk about the talent behind the scenes - Bill Doll, our director, whose insights and expertise have been instrumental in refining the script. Bill, your vision is bringing 'Undesirable Secrets' to life in the most extraordinary ways.
Now, let's spotlight our stars - the cast! Their talent brings the heartbeat to 'Undesirable Secrets.' Luis Muñoz will be portraying Anthony, capturing his depth and spirit; Eric Joshua Valle as Francisco, Arianna Gonzalez in the dual roles of Vanessa and Louisa, and AJ Erives juggling the roles of Joe Baca, Bernard Vogel, and a Nazi Guard. Phil Marzec, Bryce Real, Brian Hodges, Scott Liebowitz, and Pete Kuzov each bring their unique flair to multiple roles, adding layers of depth to the narrative.
A round of applause for Dolores Godonez and Angela V. Cavada, portraying Cecilia and Amparo. Your performances will undoubtedly mesmerize the audience.
And let's not forget the heartbeat of our narration, Robin Robinson, whose voice will guide us through this powerful story. Additionally, Juan Daniel Sosa Coronado is working magic with the slideshow and music, setting the perfect stage for our tale.
As I head to San Antonio, I'm filled with anticipation and gratitude. This read-through is more than a performance; it's a homage to history and a celebration of resilience. To everyone involved - thank you for joining me on this journey.
Exciting News: Tickets are available! If you're interested in being a part of this unforgettable experience, reserve your free tickets now. Just click the hot button below to secure your spot. Don't miss out on this unique opportunity to witness history come to life on stage.
Reserve your free tickets by clicking here!
Stay tuned for more updates from San Antonio, and if you're in the area, join us for this historic event. Here’s to making history together!
As I pack for San Antonio, Texas, the air around me crackles with excitement! On January 21st, a dream long in the making will unfold - the read-through of 'Undesirable Secrets,' a play exploring the incredible story of Anthony Acevedo and the Forgotten Soldiers of Berga.
A huge thank you is in order for Leslie Met, the director of the Holocaust Memorial Museum of San Antonio, and her assistant, Robin Long, the powerhouse producer of our show. Their support has been nothing short of inspiring. Also, a big shout-out to Morgan Yoshimura of the San Antonio Public Library for her invaluable contributions. Alongside the Anthony Acevedo Foundation, these organizations are the bedrock of this event.
Special thanks are also due to Rebeca Acevedo-Carlin and Ernesto Acevedo, Anthony's children, for their blessing and support. Their involvement brings a deep, personal touch to our endeavor.
And let's talk about the talent behind the scenes - Bill Doll, our director, whose insights and expertise have been instrumental in refining the script. Bill, your vision is bringing 'Undesirable Secrets' to life in the most extraordinary ways.
Now, let's spotlight our stars - the cast! Their talent brings the heartbeat to 'Undesirable Secrets.' Luis Muñoz will be portraying Anthony, capturing his depth and spirit; Eric Joshua Valle as Francisco, Arianna Gonzalez in the dual roles of Vanessa and Louisa, and AJ Erives juggling the roles of Joe Baca, Bernard Vogel, and a Nazi Guard. Phil Marzec, Bryce Real, Brian Hodges, Scott Liebowitz, and Pete Kuzov each bring their unique flair to multiple roles, adding layers of depth to the narrative.
A round of applause for Dolores Godonez and Angela V. Cavada, portraying Cecilia and Amparo. Your performances will undoubtedly mesmerize the audience.
And let's not forget the heartbeat of our narration, Robin Robinson, whose voice will guide us through this powerful story. Additionally, Juan Daniel Sosa Coronado is working magic with the slideshow and music, setting the perfect stage for our tale.
As I head to San Antonio, I'm filled with anticipation and gratitude. This read-through is more than a performance; it's a homage to history and a celebration of resilience. To everyone involved - thank you for joining me on this journey.
Exciting News: Tickets are available! If you're interested in being a part of this unforgettable experience, reserve your free tickets now. Just click the hot button below to secure your spot. Don't miss out on this unique opportunity to witness history come to life on stage.
Reserve your free tickets by clicking here!
Stay tuned for more updates from San Antonio, and if you're in the area, join us for this historic event. Here’s to making history together!
December 9, 2023: At the Ypsi Year-Ender
With Corinne Sikorski, the general manager of Ypsilanti Food Co-op, at the Ypsi Year-Ender 2023.
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It's hard to believe that another year is coming to an end! I am filled with gratitude for the opportunities afforded to me in my work as a writer. The MLA library showcase, I felt, went exceptionally well. Being selected as a presenter was an honor, and I hope to share Anthony Acevedo and The Forgotten Soldiers of Berga's story with library patrons throughout Michigan.
Work has continued on "Undesirable Secrets," my play based on Anthony's life and the soldiers held with him at Berga. The actors for the San Antonio read-through have all been cast, thanks in large part to Bill Doll, the read-through's director. We'll be zooming as a group soon, and as you can imagine, I am eagerly looking forward to meeting them! One of the actors, Pete Kuzov, is someone I already know. Pete played the role of Tartlov in a play I wrote decades ago, titled "Souls Nest," which Bill also directed. The play was presented at Texas Tech's Lab Theatre, the Regional American College Theatre Festival in El Paso, and was invited to the Edinburgh Fringe Festival. Though we couldn't raise the funds to attend, it was still a great honor to be invited. I'm excited to see what Pete will bring to the roles he'll be reading – I'm sure it will be brilliant! This past Thursday, I had the great honor of participating in Ypsi's Year-Ender at the Convocation Center of Eastern Michigan University, one of my alma maters. I attended the event, at least for part of the time, with Corinne Sikorski, the General Manager of the Ypsi Food Co-op, where I serve as a board member. We passed out all kinds of goodies and promoted the co-op. I also had the privilege of talking to my representative in the US Congress, Debbie Dingell. |
I've met and talked to Rep. Dingell on a number of occasions, but none as pressing as this time because I was able to reiterate the fact that I'd called and talked to her staff, as well as mailed her a letter, touting the fact that Anthony and The Forgotten Soldiers of Berga needed to be recognized in the White House and that I needed her assistance in bringing this matter to President Biden's attention. Rep. Dingell took notes and the last thing she said to me was "I'm on it!" Whether or not her efforts will produce results is not known, but I now know for a fact, that she will do everything in her power to bring this recognition about.
Funny how you never know how life will play out, right? Needless to say, I had a great time at the Year-Ender, and Corinne was a blast to work with, as usual. I look forward to being a part of this event in the coming year. There's no telling where life will take us by then, but if anything, I know it will be a journey worth taking! Stay well, and make history, every day!
Funny how you never know how life will play out, right? Needless to say, I had a great time at the Year-Ender, and Corinne was a blast to work with, as usual. I look forward to being a part of this event in the coming year. There's no telling where life will take us by then, but if anything, I know it will be a journey worth taking! Stay well, and make history, every day!
November 30, 2023: Michigan Library Showcase, Here I Come!
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I cannot believe that November is coming to an end and that we've already had our first snowfall in the great state of Michigan! On Monday, I'll be taking part in the Michigan Library Association's Showcase featuring select individuals from throughout the state who'll 'pitch' their ideas for a presentation to librarians. There was an arduous process to be selected for the showcase so I am grateful for being among those selected.
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My program proposal centers around the life of Anthony C. Acevedo and the Forgotten Soldiers of Berga. In addition to preparing for this presentation, I am currently at work finalizing a play titled 'Undesirable Secrets,' which is based on Anthony's life and the experiences of the Forgotten Soldiers of Berga. This project is particularly close to my heart, and we are scheduled for a read-through in San Antonio on January 21, 2024.
Anthony Claude Acevedo was a Mexican-American soldier who served as a U.S. Army medic during World War II. His story, along with those of his fellow soldiers, is a poignant reminder of the resilience and courage of those who served in one of history's darkest periods.
Acevedo and 349 fellow soldiers were captured during the Battle of the Bulge and transported to the Berga an der Elster labor camp, a subcamp of Buchenwald concentration camp. The conditions they faced were brutal, and the treatment by their captors was harsh. Amidst this adversity, Acevedo kept a secret diary, documenting the Nazi atrocities against American prisoners of war. This diary, a significant historical document, provides a firsthand account of the suffering and deaths of American soldiers, making it an invaluable resource for understanding the extent of their ordeal.
The story of the Forgotten Soldiers of Berga is not just a tale of suffering but also a testament to the indomitable spirit of those who faced unimaginable adversity. It's a story that needs to be told, to honor the sacrifices and resilience of these soldiers. Their experiences serve as a poignant reminder of the human cost of war and the importance of remembering those who have suffered and sacrificed in such dire circumstances.
Through my presentation and the upcoming play, I aim to shed light on this often overlooked chapter of history and pay tribute to the legacy of Anthony Acevedo and his comrades. Their story is a powerful reminder of the importance of resilience, bravery, and the human capacity to endure against all odds. I hope to inspire and educate future generations about the significance of these events and the lessons they hold for all of us.
As I prepare for this showcase and the play's read-through, I am reminded of the responsibility we all share in preserving and sharing these important stories. It is through understanding our past that we can forge a better future, one where the sacrifices of those like Anthony Acevedo and the Forgotten Soldiers of Berga are never forgotten."
Anthony Claude Acevedo was a Mexican-American soldier who served as a U.S. Army medic during World War II. His story, along with those of his fellow soldiers, is a poignant reminder of the resilience and courage of those who served in one of history's darkest periods.
Acevedo and 349 fellow soldiers were captured during the Battle of the Bulge and transported to the Berga an der Elster labor camp, a subcamp of Buchenwald concentration camp. The conditions they faced were brutal, and the treatment by their captors was harsh. Amidst this adversity, Acevedo kept a secret diary, documenting the Nazi atrocities against American prisoners of war. This diary, a significant historical document, provides a firsthand account of the suffering and deaths of American soldiers, making it an invaluable resource for understanding the extent of their ordeal.
The story of the Forgotten Soldiers of Berga is not just a tale of suffering but also a testament to the indomitable spirit of those who faced unimaginable adversity. It's a story that needs to be told, to honor the sacrifices and resilience of these soldiers. Their experiences serve as a poignant reminder of the human cost of war and the importance of remembering those who have suffered and sacrificed in such dire circumstances.
Through my presentation and the upcoming play, I aim to shed light on this often overlooked chapter of history and pay tribute to the legacy of Anthony Acevedo and his comrades. Their story is a powerful reminder of the importance of resilience, bravery, and the human capacity to endure against all odds. I hope to inspire and educate future generations about the significance of these events and the lessons they hold for all of us.
As I prepare for this showcase and the play's read-through, I am reminded of the responsibility we all share in preserving and sharing these important stories. It is through understanding our past that we can forge a better future, one where the sacrifices of those like Anthony Acevedo and the Forgotten Soldiers of Berga are never forgotten."
November 1, 2023: Special Time at the Plymouth District Library!
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I'd like to give a huge shout-out to all the wonderful children who I had a chance to meet this past weekend at the Plymouth District Library. We had a great time reading Perla's latest misterio, "Perla Garcia and the Mystery of the Missing Photo." For one of the activities, they wrote a letter to themselves that they cannot open until their Graduation Day! Boy are they in for a few surprises when the time comes to tear open their envelopes. LOL!!! Special thanks too to children's librarian Sarah Perry! Sarah is always a wonderful host and a joy to be around. Sarah also owns a publishing company, 8N Publishing. You can pre-order and learn more about her company's latest book, This Ruined Place, by Englishman, Michael Lawrence, by clicking here.
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October 19, 2023: Exciting News: I'm Coming Back to the Plymouth District Library!
Solving a Perla Garcia Mystery with my young friends during my visit to the Plymouth District Library last year. (Photo provided by the Plymouth District Library)
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Hello there, wonderful families and Perla Garcia Mystery Busters!
It's me, Rodolfo Alvarado! 🎉 Do you remember when I visited the Plymouth District Library last year? It was such a magical time, and I'm beyond excited to let you know that I'll be back this year, and we're going to make it even more unforgettable! Date and Time: October 28, from 1:00 to 2:00 pm. Don't forget! 📚 A Bookish Treat Just For You: Every Mystery Buster who joins me will receive a FREE copy of the newest addition to the Perla Garcia Mysteries - "Perla Garcia and the Mystery of the Missing Photograph". I can't wait for you to dive into this thrilling adventure alongside Perla. 🎁 Gifts and Surprises: Alongside the book, I've arranged some special gifts for all my young friends. It feels a bit like an early Halloween celebration, doesn't it? 🔎 Join the Scavenger Hunt: Inspired by Perla Garcia herself, I've planned a super fun scavenger hunt. Put on your detective hats, gather clues, and let's solve the mysteries hidden in the library together! 🎨 Time to Get Crafty: I'm eager to see your creativity shine! Together, we'll craft a trick or treat surprise. Whether it's for your family, a friend, or just a treat for you, I'm sure it will be amazing. And you know what? I'm especially thrilled to see familiar faces from last year. If we met before, please share a moment. It'll mean the world to me. So, dear parents, pack up a little excitement and bring your curious kids for an hour of stories, mystery-solving, crafts, and tons of fun. Let's make it another day for the books! See you soon, budding detectives and story enthusiasts! 🕵️♂️📖✨ |
August 18, 2023: Announcing the Premier Read-Through of "Undesirable Secrets" in San Antonio
I am thrilled to share an exciting upcoming event that promises to be both moving and transformative. The premiere read-through of "Undesirable Secrets," a poignant play inspired by the life of WWII medic Anthony C. Acevedo and GIs held with him at the concentration camp Berga an der Elster, will be taking place on January 21, 2024, at the Holocaust Memorial Museum of San Antonio.
"Undesirable Secrets" delves into the harrowing experiences of Anthony C. Acevedo and his fellow GIs who were held at the Berga during World War II. Their journey of resilience, healing, and the power of shared narratives is brought to life through this compelling and thought-provoking play.
Under the guidance of esteemed director Dr. William Doll, a professor emeritus from Angelo State University and former head of the University Theatre, this read-through promises to be a deeply moving and immersive experience. Dr. Doll's expertise and passion for theater will undoubtedly enhance the storytelling and provide a unique perspective on the play's narrative.
The read-through will be the closing event of the Holocaust Memorial Museum of San Antonio's Remembrance Month, adding a profound layer of significance to the occasion. As we gather to remember the past, honor the resilience of the human spirit, and reflect on the enduring effects of historical events, "Undesirable Secrets" serves as a reminder of the untold stories that shape our collective history.
Mark your calendars and be part of this remarkable event. Join us on January 21st to witness the birth of "Undesirable Secrets," a play that invites us to delve into the depths of human experiences and emotions. Stay tuned for further updates and details about this unforgettable evening.
Together, let's come together to remember, reflect, and find inspiration in the stories that deserve to be told.
"Undesirable Secrets" delves into the harrowing experiences of Anthony C. Acevedo and his fellow GIs who were held at the Berga during World War II. Their journey of resilience, healing, and the power of shared narratives is brought to life through this compelling and thought-provoking play.
Under the guidance of esteemed director Dr. William Doll, a professor emeritus from Angelo State University and former head of the University Theatre, this read-through promises to be a deeply moving and immersive experience. Dr. Doll's expertise and passion for theater will undoubtedly enhance the storytelling and provide a unique perspective on the play's narrative.
The read-through will be the closing event of the Holocaust Memorial Museum of San Antonio's Remembrance Month, adding a profound layer of significance to the occasion. As we gather to remember the past, honor the resilience of the human spirit, and reflect on the enduring effects of historical events, "Undesirable Secrets" serves as a reminder of the untold stories that shape our collective history.
Mark your calendars and be part of this remarkable event. Join us on January 21st to witness the birth of "Undesirable Secrets," a play that invites us to delve into the depths of human experiences and emotions. Stay tuned for further updates and details about this unforgettable evening.
Together, let's come together to remember, reflect, and find inspiration in the stories that deserve to be told.
July 30, 2023: Reuniting a Mother and Son: Honoring Maria Louise Acevedo
With Rebeca and Ernesto, Anthony Acevedo's children, visiting the newly discovered gravesite of Anthony's mother, Maria Louise. May she rest in peace.
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In a quiet corner of Pioneer Cemetery in San Bernardino, California, a touching reunion took place on a sunny July day. This wasn't just any reunion – it was a moment that brought together a family separated by time and circumstance. On July 20, Anthony Acevedo's family members stood around a grave, their emotions palpable, as they paid their respects to Maria Louise, the mother of their father, World War II medic Anthony C. Acevedo.
Years ago, when I embarked on the journey of unraveling Anthony's life story, his son, the late Fernando Acevedo, shared with me a heartbreaking truth - the family did not know the final resting place of Maria Louise. Fueled by a determination to shed light on this mystery, I made a promise to Fernando that I would uncover her burial location as part of my research. Today, I stand proud to declare that this promise has been fulfilled. For far too long, the family had been burdened by the haunting enigma of Maria Louise's burial. It was a secret closely guarded, an agony inflicted by Anthony's own father, who was marked by abusive tendencies. The significance of this visit was heightened by the presence of three important figures in Anthony's legacy – his son Ernesto, his grandson Gabriel, and his daughter, Rebeca. As we gathered around Maria Louise's grave, a solemn yet profound moment enveloped us. This was the first time the family had collectively stood at her gravesite, a poignant instance of closure that was long overdue. The journey to finding Maria Louise's grave was filled with twists and turns. It was a testament to persistence and the power of family bonds. Maria Louise, who had been originally laid to rest in the Catholic Cemetery of San Bernardino, found her final resting place at Pioneer Cemetery in July 1945. This relocation was coincidentally around the time that Anthony was training as a medic, a poignant connection between mother and son's paths. Anthony, who passed away at the age of 93, had spent his entire life without knowing where his mother was buried. The pain of this absence was further deepened by the memory of his earliest recollection – a vivid image of his baby sister, also named Maria Louise, crawling towards their ailing mother. Tuberculosis had cruelly taken Maria Louise away, leaving a void that was never filled. As we stood by the grave, the absence of a marker cast a poignant shadow. It was a reminder of the silent struggles that many families face when history remains untold. The Anthony C. Acevedo Foundation, co-founded by Ernesto, Rebeca, and myself, launched a GoFundMe campaign with a simple goal – to raise enough funds to provide Maria Louise with the recognition she deserved. A grave marker would not just symbolize her existence, but it would also signify the family's triumph over the secrets that once haunted them. During the visit, an evocative portrait of Anthony during his WWII service bridged the gap between mother and son. In this poignant moment, it felt as though they were finally reunited. Emotions flowed freely, a blend of sorrow and joy that words cannot fully capture. The past and the present converged, reminding us of the enduring power of love and connection. As we left Pioneer Cemetery that day, we carried with us a sense of closure and the knowledge that Maria Louise's legacy was no longer confined to silence. This visit was more than just a tribute; it was a testament to the unbreakable bonds of family and the power of uncovering "Undesirable Secrets." |
July 19, 2023: Book Launch Celebration at Ypsilanti's Whittaker Branch Library
Me with Corinne Sikorski, the general manger of the Ypsi Food Co-op, of which I am a proud board member! Together, we wrote and contributed a piece on the history of the co-op.
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The day after my visit to Plymouth Library, I found myself at Ypsilanti's Whittaker Branch Library for an extraordinary event—the book release party for "Ypsilanti Histories: A Look Back at the Last Fifty Years." Co-authoring a piece about the Ypsi Food Co-op alongside Corinne Sikorski, the co-op's general manager, was a true honor. As a proud board member, delving into "A History of the Ypsilanti Food Cooperative" filled me with joy, and working with Corinne was an absolute delight! The experience allowed me to connect with individuals who embody the essence of Ypsi's rich history, making the event even more memorable.
The anthology, "Ypsilanti Histories," is a captivating collection of essays that unveil significant city events and milestones—from the university's mascot transition from Hurons to Eagles, to stories of deindustrialization and the remarkable journey of Medal of Honor recipient Charles Kettles. It also touches upon other pivotal moments, such as the decriminalization of marijuana in the 1970s and the historic election of Faz Husain, Michigan's first Muslim city council member. The remarkable collaboration on this book involved contributions from a diverse group of contributors, including former mayors, council members, entrepreneurs, business owners, faculty members, alumni, and students from the university. Such a united effort was made possible thanks to the immense support and generosity of the Ypsilanti community and several local institutions, including the city, the university's College of Arts and Sciences, and the Ypsilanti Historical Society. Reflecting on the city's history, we mustn't forget the origins of Ypsilanti, established by U.S. Army Maj. Thomas Woodruff in 1823 on the banks of the Huron River. The city's name honors Demetrios Ypsilantis, the Greek independence hero who emerged victorious in the Greek Independence War of 1829. Over the past two centuries, Ypsilanti has gained recognition for its automobile and B-24 bomber manufacturing prowess, as well as Eastern Michigan University's profound impact on education. Now, as Ypsilanti reaches its bicentennial milestone, the release of "Ypsilanti Histories" is a testament to the city's enduring legacy. The book, skillfully edited by university history professor John McCurdy and Ypsilanti Historical Society President Bill Nickels, was brought to life by the remarkable contributions of 40 local historians, university professors, students, and alumni. Published by Ann Arbor District Library’s Fifth Avenue Press, this anthology stands as a true homage to the city's past, making it a cherished keepsake for both residents and visitors alike. While this isn't the first time Ypsilanti's history has been documented, "Ypsilanti Histories" takes a unique approach by focusing on the transformative changes that have shaped the city since 1973. As we commemorate the last fifty years for the bicentennial celebration, we hope this collection will serve as an insightful and inspiring journey through time for generations to come. Here's to Ypsilanti's rich history, a tapestry woven by the hands and hearts of its resilient and diverse community. May it continue to thrive for centuries to come, with each chapter building upon the legacy of the last. |
July 15, 2023: Celebrating Children's Authors at Plymouth Library
Me, with future superstar author, Leyshaa! She is a first grader who authored her first book! (See details in my post.) Her father gave me permission to post this photo. Thank you!
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Hello! Welcome! Yesterday, July 15, I attended the Plymouth Library's Celebration of Children's Authors, where I had the opportunity to meet and share my book, 'Perla Garcia and the Mystery of La Llorona,' the weeping woman. I worked with children on a hidden picture mystery together, and the children actually showed me where two of the objects were hidden that I could never find: the toothbrush and the boot! We were tempted to ask the library to announce that we needed help finding a lost boot. The children were fantastic, and their parents were a joy to talk to as well. I also shared my Young Adult books, 'The Number on my Father's Arm' and 'Junior's Dream.' Copies of all the books were gone before the end of the day. I am grateful to those who picked up copies, especially Zoe!
I also had the pleasure of meeting Leyshaa J Pasrija, a 1st grader who published her first book, 'Colors of My Imagination.' I purchased an autographed copy, and she even added a special note just for me! Leyshaa is a wonderful young girl who will go far in the world of literature. Keep chasing your dreams, Leyshaa! I had the privilege of meeting Amy Nielander, an author and illustrator, and what a talent she is! If you've never purchased one of her books, you must do so as soon as possible. My favorite is 'My Name Is Not Ed Tug,' a book about a boy who demands to be called by his correct name. The book reminded me of my school days in the 60's (yes, I'm showing my age) when teachers changed the names of Latinos. For example, Jorge became George and Pablo became Paul. I also had the great pleasure of meeting Kathleen Vincenz and Daniel Vincenz, a mother and son team. Kathleen is the writer, and Daniel is the illustrator. One of their titles that caught my eye was 'Over the Falls in a Suitcase,' a book about what happens when three sisters, a dog, a hat, and a pink suitcase collide in Niagara Falls. I am ordering the book today, and I encourage you to do the same! I am thrilled to announce that I will be back at the Plymouth Library on October 28th to host another Perla Garcia Mystery Adventure. A few months ago I hosted a Perla Adventure at the library where I had the pleasure of meeting approximately 30 of the most adventurous and intelligent kids ever! I am eagerly looking forward to returning. Will the next adventure include a Halloween theme? Hmmm... maybe! Special thanks to all the staff at the library who were fantastic hosts! A huge shout out and thanks to the children's librarian, Sarah Lomas, for organizing the event and for being an extraordinary host. I first met Sarah years ago when we shared a table at an YpsiWrites event in my hometown of Ypsilanti, Michigan. Sarah is also a published author specializing in rom-coms. I have a few of her books, which I strongly recommend. Word has it that Sarah is going to teach me how to write a rom-com. So, watch out world! No, I really mean it - watch out! Today, on July 16, I'll be attending a book release party for 'Ypsilanti Histories: A Look Back at the Last Fifty Years.' I contributed a piece on the history of the Ypsi Food Co-op, which I co-authored with the co-op's general manager, Corinne Sikorski. I am proud to say that I have been a member of the co-op's board of directors for a little over a year. Ya-Hooo! Well, that's it for now. Thanks for stopping by. Until next time, stay well and safe!" |