¡Viva Teatro Trono! In Loving Memory of Iván

Dear Friends, Artists, Dreamers, Disruptors, and Dragons far and wide,

Three months ago, on March 20th 2019, Bolivia and the world lost a legendary artist and visionary.  Iván Nogales was the founder of Teatro Trono and COMPA (Comunidad de Productores en los Artes) in El Alto, Bolivia, two initiatives that work to bring about social change through the arts and theater.  Teatro Trono has touched the lives of countless young people, families, international students and visitors, and people around the world who believe in the transformational potential of artistic expression in all its forms. 

We are launching a campaign in solidarity with the Trono community so that Iván's work and vision can live on.  Teatro Trono provides workshops and community projects for low-incomes populations in La Paz and El Alto who otherwise would never have access to  artistic outlets, including theater, music, dance, film and radio, and so much more.  Trono runs two cultural centers in El Alto, poetic spaces built on the fringes of El Alto through decades of creativity, love, collective action, and recycled materials.  Teatro Trono now finds itself in a moment of profound loss and restoration after Iván's passing, and needs our support in keeping Iván's vision alive.

For some time, Teatro Trono-COMPA has been experiencing financial distress as a result of diminishing international support and new policies of the Bolivian state.  We believe deeply in the vision and cause that Trono represents, and have seen so many people benefit from the unique spaces and services they offer.  If you have had the gift of connecting with Teatro Trono through Where There Be Dragons or other organizations, please consider sharing a contribution.  If you believe that young, marginalized populations deserve access to laughter, play and creativity, please share a contribution.  If the light and love of Iván Nogales has ever touched your heart, please consider supporting so that his important legacy can live on.  

Proceeds will go to maintenance expenses to keep the two houses running, salaries for Trono staff, and project development to keep workshops and other activities alive and functioning.  Some funds may also be dedicated to the Pueblo de Creadores (Village of Creators), a community project started by Iván in the Yungas cloud forest of Bolivia.

Any support will mean the world to the Trono Community, who has opened its doors lovingly to thousands of friends, guests, artists, students, and creative seekers over the past 30 years.  Please help us keep Iván's legacy and vision alive and accessible!