'In the Heights' Makes Its Portuguese Debut with a Vibrant New Adaptation
Putting on this production requires a team of around 50 people, including 16 actors and six musicians.
This marks the first time In the Heights—the 2005 musical by American creator Lin-Manuel Miranda—has been adapted for Portuguese audiences. Ahead of its premiere, the team received a special call.
"Lin-Manuel Miranda told us he wrote this story because he didn't see his own community—Latin American immigrants—represented on stage," says choreographer Sissi Martins. "Now is the perfect time to talk about gentrification, immigration, and the support these communities need."
In 2008, In the Heights hit Broadway and became one of the most acclaimed and award-winning shows of its time, earning four Tony Awards, including Best Musical, and a Grammy.
"I think In the Heights makes us reflect on what's happening in the world," Martins adds. "That's why I do theater—to tell stories that, in some way, can change someone's life."
For this team, World Theatre Day is just another day doing what they love. Catch the musical through May 3.
