Founded in 1989 by William A. Virchis and Dr. Jorge Huerta, Teatro Máscara Mágica has become a leader in live theater. From the beginning, the company focused on sharing diverse stories and voices that are often overlooked in traditional theater.
The journey began with I Am Celso in 1990, a production that earned widespread praise. Successes like An Evening with Carlos Bracho and Chronicle of Kidnapping followed. In 1991, the theater made history with La Pastorela: A Shepherd’s Story, the first professionally produced Pastorela in San Diego.
Performed in verse, La Pastorela tells the story of shepherds traveling to see the newborn Jesus. Its mix of tradition and creativity has made it a holiday favorite for audiences from San Diego and beyond.
In 1992, the theater expanded its mission by welcoming artists from all backgrounds. This inclusivity turned Teatro Máscara Mágica into a space that truly represents San Diego’s diverse community. Over time, it has earned national recognition as a model for multicultural theater.
This year, Chula Vista Mayor John McCann applauded the theater’s achievements on social media. He thanked director William A. Virchis and writer Timothy Evans for “bringing these joyful performances to life and celebrating our shared culture.”
Teatro Máscara Mágica remains a vital part of San Diego’s cultural scene. Its commitment to storytelling and community continues to shine, thanks to the hard work of its team and supporters.
For more information about Teatro Máscara Mágica, visit teatromascaramagica.org.