Cara Mia Theatre

Cara Mía Theatre: Growing Together through Global Theatre

Cara Mía Theatre is raising $12,500 to support our Seven Core Pillars, the foundation of our creative, educational, and community work.

Our work is grounded in seven interconnected pillars that bring together creation, education, and community each a vital expression of how we grow together through global theatre.

Your gift will support our seven core pillars initiatives:

1. The School of YES!

Our free summer arts camp empowers over 60 youth (ages 7–18) to create original, collaborative arts projects reflecting their lives and communities. A core component, the Student Leadership Program, builds skills in leadership, project ideation, and implementation — preparing youth to thrive in the arts, business, education, and STEM fields.

1. Programs for Schools

We bring art, joy, and belonging to every child across North Texas — reaching over 100,000 students through school performances and academic engagement inspired by Latino theatre.

1. ActivARTE Teaching Artistry Lab

A paid, hands-on training program for local Teaching Artists to lead student-led arts projects. Participants gain practical experience guiding youth from concept to completion while learning how AI can enhance communication and creative leadership.

1. Symposium on Arts Management for Artists

Now in its second year, this immersive gathering offers mentorship, dialogue, and community development for artists. With 50 scholarships and $100 honoraria, the symposium builds a diverse network of cultural leaders equipped to navigate funding and creative challenges.

1. Latinidades Theatre Festival

A global celebration of culture, connection, and creative exchange — Cara Mía’s most visible and unifying event — spotlighting the richness of Latinidad in Dallas and beyond. 

1. Original Plays & Global Collaborations

We create new stories and international partnerships that connect Dallas to the world, including Texas Mariachi, Yemayá Flamenco, and Yanga.

1. Jesse Tafalla Jr. Scholarship Fund

Named after our beloved board member, this fund supports graduates of the School of YES! Leadership Program as they pursue higher education. In 2025, three young leaders received up to $2,000 each. This Giving Tuesday, every gift to the Jesse Tafalla Jr. Scholarship Fund will be matched up to $12,500, doubling your impact.

What Your Gift Supports

• $50 funds one hour of Teaching Artist training

• $100 supports stipends for high school student leaders in the School of YES!

• $250 covers participation for one local artist at the Symposium

• $500 funds 10 hours of Teaching Artist training

• $1,000 fully matches a scholarship for a college-bound youth

• $2,500 provides honoraria for veteran artists mentoring local professionals

Through global theatre, we nurture global thinking, growing together in creativity, empathy, and mutual support!