CHICAGO: Chicago Latino Theater Alliance (CLATA) has announced the inaugural Chicago International Latino Theater Festival, titled Destinos, which will run Sept. 29-Oct. 29. The festival will feature works by international companies from Latin America and the Caribbean, as well as Latinx theatre companies from across the U.S. The programming will also include panel discussions.

“In Spanish, the word destinos has multiple meanings: destinies, destinations, or fate,” said Myrna Salazar, executive director of CLATA, in a statement. “We believe that theatre transports people to a place that transcends boundaries, and toward a broader outlook on the world. Through this, the inaugural Chicago International Latino Theater Festival, Destinos, shares the belief in the power of theatre to amplify first-voice Latino artists and to create a cross-cultural experience.”

Participating companies include Arte Boricua (Puerto Rico), Ludi Teatro (Cuba), Teatro Línea de Sombra (Mexico), Vueltas Bravas Producciones (Colombia), Felix Rojas (New York), and Teatro Luna West (Los Angeles). Companies from Chicago will include Aguijón Theater, Teatro Vista, Urban Theater Company, and Water People Theater.

Chicago Shakespeare Theater will co-present a show with CLATA at its new performance space, the Yard. Other venue partners will include Steppenwolf’s 1700 Theatre, Victory Gardens Theater, and the National Museum of Mexican Art.

“The Chicago International Latino Theater Festival will give Latino artists and performers greater visibility,” said Martin R. Castro, founding board chair of CLATA, in a statement. “With the historic establishment of the Chicago Latino Theater Alliance, and now this incredible festival, it is certain that we have enhanced Chicago’s standing as a world-class theatre destination.”