HomeMy WebLinkAboutBREATH OF FIRE LATINA THEATER ENSEMBLE INSURANCE NOT ON FILE
WORK 14AY NOT 'PROCEED �-2o2s-���
CITY CLERK
DATE:
fl Ga+ t ) AUG 1 1 7026
ARTS AND CULTURE ARTIST GRANT PROGRAM AGREEMENT BETWEEN
THE CITY OF SANTA ANA AND BREATH OF FIRE L,ATINA THEATER ENSEMBLE
This Artist Grant Agreement("Agreement")is made and entered this 18th day of May, 2026, by
and between the City of Santa Ana, a charter City and municipal corporation organized and
existing under the Constitution and laws of the State of California ("City"), and Breath of Fire
Latina Theater Ensemble, a California nonprofit public benefit corporation ("Grantee")for the
purpose of providing grant funding pursuant to the Investing in the Artist Grant Program ("Grant
Program"). City and Grantee may herein individually be referred to as a"Party"and collectively
be referred to as the"Parties"to the Agreement.
RECITALS:
A. On April 19th, 2026, the Arts and Culture Commission reviewed all applicants and
recommended that Grantee be awarded an artist grant based on its Application for its art
project("Project'). A true and correct copy of Grantee's Application is attached hereto as
Exhibit A and incorporated herein by reference.
B. In undertaking the performance pursuant to this Agreement, Grantee represents that it is
skilled and knowledgeable in the arts and culture arena and that the Project created or
performed hereunder W11 be created or performed in compliance with such standards as may
reasonably be expected from an artist.
NOW THEREFORE, in consideration of the mutual and respective promises, and subject to the
terms and conditions hereinafter set forth,the Parties agree as follows:
1. Term. This Agreement shall be effective upon signature by both Parties and shall expire one
year from the date first written above, unless terminated earlier in accordance with this
Agreement.
2. Funding.
2.1. Subject to Grantee's performance of all required actions under this Agreement, City shall
provide funding, in two disbursements, as detailed below, of an amount not to exceed Fifteen
Thousand, Seven Hundred, Sixty-Six Dollars ($15,766) (Grant Amount"or"Grant").
2.2. Grantee will be paid in two (2) installments. First payment will be one-half of the funding
amount provided above or$7,883 and will be provided within thirty(30)days of the full execution
of the Agreement by the Parties along with a complete invoice submitted by Grantee. The second
and final payment will include the remaining amount of$7,883 and will be issued within thirty(30)
days after the Grantee submits to the City all the proper receipts, invoices, and final report far the
Project.
2.3. Appropriate performance of the Grantee will be determined by City in its sole discretion. City
reserves the right to cease funding after the first disbursement detailed above, and to be I
reimbursed the initial payment, if Grantee's performance is determined to be insufficient or I
unacceptable in the City's sole discretion.
2.3. City represents that there is no correlation or connection between its selection of individuals
for grant awards and an individual's business relationship or potential business relationship with
City.
3. Grant Activities. Grantee agrees:
1
I
3.1. To perform the activities described In Grantee's Grant Application submitted to City for
consideration dated March 24, 2026, a copy of which is attached as Exhibit A and incorporated
into this Agreement as if set out in full.
3.2.To submit all reports(each, a"Report"),which shall include, at a minimum,the items setforth
as required by the Application. No personally identifiable information shall be included in any of
the Reports, except where specifically requested. The Reports shall be in a format that is
reasonably acceptable to City. City may request additional information as City, in its sole
discretion,determines is necessary to monitor performance of this Agreement. City shall have the
right to use any Reports submitted by Grantee, or any portion thereof, for any reason. i
3.3. To maintain all pertinent financial and accounting records pertaining to this Agreement in
accordance with generally accepted accounting principles and other procedures reasonably
specified by City. Upon termination or expiration of this Agreement or request by City, Grantee
shall provide, at its expense, copies of all financial and accounting records produced by Grantee I
arising out of this Agreement.
3A.To allow audits, compliance or special reviews and inspections, including on-site inspection,
with or without prior notice, of Grantee's facilities by City or by third parties designated by City, or
their authorized representatives. Grantee shall provide its full cooperation for any such audit,
review or inspection, including providing timely access, for examination and copying of records I
(including computerized records) pertinent books, documents, papers, computer programs and
records and reasonable access to its personnel.
3.5. To ensure that any areas utilized for the Project are maintained and restored to a well-
maintained,safe,sanitary,and clean condition,and kept free of any hazardous waste at all times.
All equipment associated with the installation of the artwork, trash and debris shall be removed
and cleaned up on a daily basis. If applicable to the Project, Grantee shall place a drop cloth or
similar barrier on the ground below the artwork while installation is underway, which barrier shall j
be removed each day upon completion of an installation session.
3.6. The Project may not contain advertising, religious art, sexual content, negative or violent
imagery, convey political partisanship or include any hidden, subliminal, or camouflaged
messages or statements of any kind or nature. Appropriateness of the content of the Project will
be determined by City in its sole discretion.
3.7. The Project may not include any breach of intellectual property, trademarks, brands, or
images of illegal activity, :and the Grantee must be the copyright holder for the Project. It is the
sole responsibility of the Grantee to obtain any and all applicable copyrights or trademarks
associated with the artwork for the Project.
3.8. To be responsible for the maintenance of the Project, which includes but is not limited to,
graffiti removal, touch-up, and restoration, for the duration of the Project's existence.
3.9. If the artwork is a mural,it must be covered in an anti-graffiti coating at the Grantee's expense.
3.10.The City holds all rights to public art on City property, and as such the Project artwork may
be removed at the sole discretion of the City. Should the Project artwork be defaced and/or not
repaired, maintained, preserved and/or conserved, the City has the authority to repair, maintain,
preserve, and/or conserve the Project artwork, or alternatively, the City has the sole authority to
remove, sitar, or destroy the Project artwork. Grantee will have first right of refusal to restore said
2 {
F
i
Project artwork.. If Grantee is unwilling to perform or unable to be contacted within a reasonable
time,the City has the right to request the services needed from a different artist, in the City's sole
discretion.
3.11. Grantee shall execute and deliver to City any instruments that City may reasonably require
to confirm ownership of any artwork.
3,12, Grantee sha[l be responsible for complying with all Federal, State and local laws,
ordinances, statutes and regulations, including, but not limited to zoning and other environmental
requirements (if applicable), and for obtaining all required licenses, permits, or other
authorizations applicable to the performance of Grantee's Project under this Agreement.
3.13.The estimated dates of completion and proposed Project locations contained in the Grantee
Application, Exhibit A, are just that, estimates and proposals, as they were provided to the Arts
& Culture Commission. It is the responsibility of the Grantee to secure all necessary permits,
approvals, location confirmation, and facilities confirmation, from the appropriate entities, City
departments or City facilities for the use of the proposed site for the Project. Execution of this
Agreement does not guarantee any specific City permit, City location, or City site for the Project.
4. Termination,
4.1. City may immediately terminate this Agreement upon one or more of the following:
4.1.1. Grantee's violation of any federal, state or local law or regulation,
4.1.2. Grantee's breach of any of the terms or conditions of this Agreement, including the
Application, or any unapproved deviation from said documents that has not been cured
within 30 days of written notice of such breach.
i
4,1,3 Grantee's failure to provide documents to the City, as requested by the City by a I
date no later than three(3)months from the date of this Agreement, in order to maintain
compliance with the Grant Program,City Policies or Procedures,or this Agreement. Such '
paperwork can include but is not limited to,completed vendor forms(City's administrative
forms, IRS W-9 form, ACH payment forms), proof of insurance, and signed orientation
paperwork.
4.2. In the event the Agreement is terminated under Section 4.1,City reserves the right to require
Grantee to refund any or all grant funds awarded to Grantee under this Agreement,and Grantee
agrees to refund to City any or all grant funds awarded under this Agreement.
5.. Limitation of Liability.
5.1. IN NO EVENT SHALL CITY BE LIABLE FOR ANY INDIRECT, SPECIAL, INCIDENTAL OR
CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES OR EXPENSES FOR ANY NEGLIGENCE, BREACH OF
CONTRACT OR ANY OTHER ACT ARISING OUT OF OR RENTING TO THIS AGREEMENT
OR THE ACTIVITIES COVERED HEREUNDER. F
z
5.2. Section 5 and Section 6 do not limit Grantee's rights, including its ability to seep recovery,
against anyone other than City, its City Council, officials, directors, officers, employees, agents,
successors, assigns and volunteers.
6. Indemnification.
3
i
I
I
1
I
6.1. Grantee shall defend, indemnify, protect and hold harmless the City, and its City Council,
elected and appointed officials and officers,employees, members,volunteers,or agents from and
against all claims for damages, liability, cost and expense (including without limitation attorney's
fees) arising out of or alleged by third parties to be the result of the negligent acts, errors or
omissions or the willful misconduct of the Grantee, and Grantee's employees, subcontractors or
other persons, agencies or firms for whom Grantee is legally responsible in connection with the l!
execution of the work covered by this Agreement. Grantee shall have no duty to indemnify or
hold harmless the City if claims, damages, liability, costs, expenses (including without limitation,
attorney's fees) arise from the sole negligence or sole willful misconduct of the City subsequent
to declaration by the Grantee. Grantee's obligations shall survive the termination of this
Agreement.
6.2.Grantee agrees to hereby fully release and forever discharge the City from any and all claims,
demands,damages, losses, and liabilities(hereinafter collectively referred to as'claims'), which
are or may be related to or in any way connected with the negligence or willful misconduct of its
officers,officials, employees, or agents in connection with the creation, painting, performance or
installation of the Project hereunder.
6.3. Grantee further agrees that City may in good faith and on reasonable terms settle any such
claims and that CiVs right to indemnification shall extend to any such settlement, provided City
has given notice of such claim and its intent to settle. City's right to indemnification Is in addition
to,and may be exercised independently of,any remedy held by City under this Agreement, at law
or in equity. The Indemnity provision set forth in this Agreement shall survive the termination or
expiration of this Agreement indefinitely. i
7, Insurance
7.1 Prior to undertaking performance of work under this Agreement, Grantee shall maintain and
shall require its subcontractors, if any,to obtain and maintain insurance as described below:
MINIMUM SCOPE AND LIMIT OF INSURANCE
Grantee shall maintain limits of insurance coverage in the following minimum amounts and shall
be at least as broad as:
Commercial General Liability(CGL):Insurance Services Office Form CG 00 01 covering
CGL. on an occurrence' basis, including products and completed operations, property
damage,bodily injury and personal&advertising injury with limits no less than$1,000,000
per occurrence and $2,000,000 aggregate.
• Automobile liability (AL): Insurance Services Office Form CA 00 01 covering Code 1
(any auto), with combined single limits of $1,000,000. In the event Grantee does not
maintain commercial automobile liability insurance, City will accept evidence of personal
automobile insurance with existing limits,which can be lower than $1,000,000.
• Workers' Compensation (WIC): as required by the State of California, with statutory
limits, and Employer's Liability Insurance with limit of no less than $1,000,000 per
accident, per employee, per policy far bodily injury or disease. This requirement can be
waived if Grantee has no employees.
If Grantee maintains broader coverage and/or higher limits than the minimums shown
above, City requires and small be entitled to the broader coverage and/or the higher limits
4
E
f
f
i
I
i
maintained by Grantee.Any available insurance proceeds in excess of the specified
minimum limits of insurance and coverage shall be available to City.
Other Insurance Provisions
The insurance policies are to contain, or be endorsed to contain, the following provisions:
1. CGL and AL policies: City of Santa Ana, its City Council, its officers, officials,
employees, agents, and volunteers are to be covered as additional insureds with
respect to liability arising out of work or operations performed by or on behalf of the
Grantee including materials, parts, equipment, and personnel furnished in connection
with such work or operations.
2. All required insurance policies: Insurance company(ies)agrees to waive all rights of
subrogation against City, its City Council, its officers,officials, employees, agents,
and volunteers for losses paid under the tuns of any policy which arlse from work
performed by Grantee for City.
3. All required Insurance policies: For any claims related to this contract, Grantee's
insurance coverage shall be primary and any Insurance maintained by City, its City
Council, its officers,officials,employees, agents, or volunteers shall not contribute
with it. i
4. All required insurance policies:A severability of interest provision must apply for all i
the additional Insureds, ensuring that Grantee's insurance shall apply separately to
each insured against whom a claim is made or suit is brought, except with respect to
the insurer's limits of liability.
5. Each insurance policy required herein shall provide that coverage shall not be
canceled, suspended, voided, reduced in coverage or in limits, non-renewed by the
carrier, or materially changed except after thirty(30)days prior written notice has
been given to City.Ten(10)days prior written shall be provided to City for policy
cancellation or non-renewal due to non-payment.
6< Certificate Bolder an each Evidence of Insurance certificate shall be: City of Santa
Ana, Attention: Executive Director,Community Development Agency, 20 Civic
Center Plaza M 25,Santa Ana, CA 02701.The name and location of event should
be included in the Description of Operations section of each certificate.
Acceptability of Insurers j
Insurance is to be placed with insurers authorized to conduct business in the state of
California with a current A.M. Best rating of no teas than A:VII, unless otherwise acceptable t
to City.
Verification of Coverage
Grantee shall furnish City with original Certificates of Insurance including all required
amendatory endorsements(car copies of the applicable policy language effecting coverage
required by this clause)and a copy of the Declarations and Endorsement Page of the CGL
policy listing all policy endorsements to City before work begins. However,failure to obtain
the required documents prior to the work beginning shall not waive Grantee's obligation to
provide them. City reserves the right to require complete, certified copies of all required
insurance policies, Including endorsements required by these specifications, at any time. j
Subcontractors
5
i
I
I
I
i
i
i
Grantee shall require and verify that all sub-contractors maintain insurance
meeting all the requirements stated herein, and Grantee shall ensure that City is
an additional insured on insurance required from sub-contractors.
Special Risks or Circumstances
City reserves the right to modify these requirements, including limits, based on the nature of
the risk, prior experience, insurer, coverage, or other special circumstances.
8. General Provisions.
6.1, Grantee shall acquire prior-written permission from City for any use of the City name or logo
in association with the Project.
i
8.2. If any parts of this Agreement are held to be invalid or unenforceable,the remaining.parts of
the Agreement shall continue to be valid and enforceable,
8.3. Grantee shall comply with all governmental requirements that may now or in the future
become applicable to the activities under this Agreement,
8.4. This Agreement, including all exhibits, Application, and any amendments or schedules
hereto, contain the full understanding and agreement of the Parties with respect to its subject
matter, and no waiver, alteration or modification of any of the provisions to this Agreement shall
be binding unless in writing and signed by an authorized officer of both Parties.
8.5. No waiver by either Party or any breach, default, or series of breaches or defaults, and no
failure, refusal, or neglect of either Party to exercise any right, power, or option given to it under I
this Agreement or to insist upon strict compliance with the terms of this Agreement shall constitute
a waiver of these provisions with respect to any subsequent breach or waiver by either Party or I
its right at any time thereafter to require exact and strict compliance with provisions of this
Agreement.
8,6.Any notice or other communication required or permitted to be made or given by either Party
pursuant to this Agreement will be In writing and will be deemed to have been duly given: (I)five
(5) business days after the date of mailing if sent by registered or certified U.S, mail, postage
prepaid, with return receipt requested; (€1) when transmitted if sent by facsimile, provided a
confirmation of transmission Is produced by the sending machine; or (iii) when delivered if
delivered personally or sent by express courier service.All notices to City shall include a reference
to the Project title.
All notices will be sent to the other Party at its address as set forth below or at such other address
as such Party will have specified in a notice given in accordance with this section:
Grantee: Breath of Fire matins Theater Ensemble
216 E Pomona St
Santa Ana, CA 92707
i
6
E
City: City of Santa Ana
Clerk of the Council (M-30)
20 Civic Center Plaza
P.O. Box 1988
Santa Ana, CA 92702
FAX(714)647.6956
8.7. This Agreement is subject to all applicable local, State and Federal laws. This Agreement
has been executed and delivered in the State of California and the validity, interpretation,
performance, and enforcement of any of the clauses of this Agreement shall be determined and
governed by the laws of the State of California. Both Parties further agree that Orange County,
California, shall be the venue for any action or proceeding that may be brought or arise out of, in
connection with or by reason of this Agreement. i
i
8.8. Grantee agrees to comply with all applicable equal opportunity and affirmative action laws as
appropriate, Grantee shall not discriminate because of race, color, religion,sec, gender identity,
gender expression, marital status, sexual orientation, age, national origin, ancestry, medical
condition, military or veteran status,genetic information, request for family care leave,request for
leave for an employee's own serious health condition, request for pregnancy disability leave,
disability, or otherwise as defined and prohibited by applicable law, in the recruitment,selection,
training, utilization,promotion, termination or other employment related activities. Grantee affirms
that it is an equal opportunity employer(if applicable)and shall comply with all applicable federal, ;
state and local laws and regulations.
8.0. Any funds provided under this Agreement that are not expended, obligated or otherwise
committed by the termination or expiration of this Agreement shall be immediately returned to
City.
I
8.10. Grantee grants to City a non-exclusive, irrevocable, transferable, royalty free, worldwide
license to use, reproduce,display, distribute, and prepare derivative works, in any form or media
at the discretion of the City for the Project conceived, performed or created as a result of this
Agreement.
i
8.11.Grantee and any of the Grantee's agents,employees or representatives are,for all purposes
under this Agreement, an independent contractor and shall not be deemed to be an employee of
the City, and none of them shall be entitled to any benefits to which City employees are entitled
including but not limited to, overtime, retirement benefits, work's compensation benefits, injury
leave or other leave benefits.
8.12. Neither Party shall assign any rights or obligations under this Agreement.
8.13. Each Party covenants that it presently has no interests and shall not have interests, direct
or indirect, which would conflict in any manner with performance of services specified under this
Agreement.
8.14, Each Party warrants that they have executed this Agreement knowingly, freely and
voluntarily and with full knowledge of its legal consequences. Ali Parties involved warrant and
represent that, prior to executing this Agreement, each Party has had the opportunity to review
7
I
and consider this matter with legal counsel, and that the terms of this Agreement, and its
consequences, are fully understood by each Party.
8.16. This Agreement represents the entire agreement and understanding between the Parties,
and supersedes any and all prior agreements and understandings between the Parties,whether
oral or written.
8.16. Each undersigned represents and warrants that Its signature herein below has the power,
authority and right to bind their respective Parties to each of the terms of this Agreement, and {
shall indemnify City fully, including reasonable costs and attorney's fees, for any injuries or
damages to City In the event that such authority or power Is not, in Fact, held by the signatory or
is withdrawn.
(Signatures on following page)
E{E
F
r
i
4
1
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the Parties hereto have executed this Agreement the date and year '
first above written.
ATTEST: CITY OF SANTA ANAZ94
'
I
F HALL =`- ALVARO NUREZ
City CI rk City Manager
I
APPROVED AS TO FORM: GRANTEE:
SONIA R. CARVALHO
tto,ney
J�x
(A,Gt
By:An rea N. Garcia Name: Sara Guerrero
Senior Assistant City Attorney Organization: Breath of Fire Latina
Theater Ensemble
Title:Founding Executive Artistic
Director
RECOMMENDED FOR APPROVAL:
r '
MICHAEL L. GARCIA
Executive Director
Community Development Agency
9
i
EXHIBIT A
INVESTING IN THE ARTS GRANT PROGRAM
APPLICATION
i
i
30
i
I3
1
City of Santa Ana Powered by 5ubmittable 0
Title 0010 03/24/2026
by Sara Guerrero in Investing in the Artist Grant id. 53610263
2025-2026 - Art Organization
breathoff irelatinatheater@gmail,com
Original Submission 03/24/2026
Score
Organization Name Breath of Fire Latina Theater Ensemble
Contact Person Sara
Guerrero
Title in the Founding Exec Artistic Dir
Organization
Organization Address 216 E Pomona St Santa Ana CA (mailing address)
Santa Ana
CA
92707
US
33.725274
-117.865947
Email sg.bofite@gmai1.com
Phone Number +17147850764
Tax ID # 562673729
Website, other social httpsJ/www.breathoffire.org
media (if applicable)
Brief Description of Storytelling as Resistance is a year-long, multi-track arts initiative from
Project Breath of Fire Latina Theater Ensemble (BOFLTE) offering Santa Ana
residents free and low-cost access to playwriting, performance, and
broadcast storytelling. Six interconnected program tracks, including
bilingual writing workshops, a radio production intensive with live broadcast
on KPFK 90.7FM, an ACTOS political theater workshop developed with
Teatro Campesino, and master classes with playwrights Octavio Solis,
Luis Alfaro, and Karen Zacarias, form a creative ecosystem rooted in
Latinx cultural traditions. Together, they give Santa Ana community
members the tools and space to tell their own stories, on their own terms.
Full Description of Project
project_narrative.pdf
Type of Application: Organization is based in Santa Ana and proposes to use grant funds to
provide arts and culture programming in Santa Ana
Ward of Project Ward 1
(Check all that apply) Ward 2
Ward 3
Ward 4
Ward 6
Ward 5
Enter grant amount 20000
request (up to
$20,000)
If approved, you may Should we receive less than the full $20,000 requested, BOFLTE has a
not receive the total plan for both supplemental funding and responsible scaling. We would
amount you are prioritize the core ongoing programming, Playwriting Office Hours, Sin
requesting, please be Barreras Online, and Rio de Mi Vida, as these have the lowest per-session
prepared to have cost and the broadest community reach. The Radio Production Workshop
other funding and ACTOS collaboration would be condensed rather than eliminated. The
sources and/or scale Master Class series is already fully underwritten by BOFTLE's board and
down your project. would not be affected by a reduced award.
How will this impact For additional funding, BOFLTE would pursue individual donor appeals
your project (where through our existing network, apply to the California Arks Council's Creative
would you get more Youth Development and Organizations grants, and draw on earned income
funding and/or how through sliding-scale workshop fees. BOFLTE has a demonstrated history
would you scale of leveraging small grants into larger programming through in-kind _
down your project)? contributions, volunteer labor, and artist partnerships.
Have you/will you be No
receiving funding
from the City within
the fiscal years
2020-2025? (include
Special Events
Sponsorship, Utility
Box Art, etc.)
If YES, list: 1) N/A
Program Name, 2)
Year, 3)Amount. [Ex:
Utility Box Ark, 2020,
$450]
Project fulfills the Work collectively towards a robust infrastructure for the arts in Santa Ana
following goal(s) from inclusive of City policy, staffing, and sustained funding.
the Arts & Culture Create the conditions where artists and creatives thrive professionally and
Master Plan (check arts and cultural organizations have the resources required for sustained
all that apply) success.
Support and expand arts and cultural programming to engage all
populations (regardless of age, gender, ethnicity, backgrounds, or
socioeconomic status) throughout the community.
Support existing and create new opportunities for youth to engage in
artistic and creative activities and career pathways.
Identify community spaces for artistic and creative collaborations and
create a roadmap for new cultural facility development through City and
organizational partnerships.
Preserve Santa Ana's unique heritage while creating arts and culture
opportunities through placemaking initiatives.
Create visible and interactive arts opportunities for engagement through
public art.
Contribute to the economic growth of the City, including development of a
skilled workforce.
Foster a citywide culture of equity, inclusion, and access.
Organization Mission Our Mission. To support the work and enrich the lives of Latinas in the
and History visual and performing arts.
BREATH OF FIRE LATINA THEATER ENSEMBLE (BOFLTE), a 501(c)(3)
nonprofit organization, is an award-winning Latina theater company based
in downtown Santa Ana, the corazan of the county. BOFLTE was created
to support the work and enrich the lives of Latinas in the performing arts by -
providing representation, opportunities, and leadership roles within
traditional arts communities.
Conceived in the early 2000s and officially incorporated as a nonprofit in
2007, BOFLTE has made an indelible mark on the Orange County arts
scene, the greater Los Angeles area, and beyond. It was honored by
Groundswell (OC Human Relations) as a Community Leader for
"extraordinary contributions to the county in the area of human and/or civil
rights."
BOFLTE holds a Artists-in-Residency with California State University
Fullerton's (CSUF) Grand Central Arts Center (GCAC); awarded Best Play
for its book "The COVID Monologues" by the International Latino Book
Awards (ILBA); one of 52 recipients of The National Latinx Theater
Initiative (a three year grant); a two-year grant recipient of The City of
Santa Ana Artist Grant; awardee of The TYAIUSA Relmagine Grant; and, in
2024 launched a community partnership with California State University
Fullerton's Theatre Department to produce intergenerational work that
engages the CSUF's students, alumni and the Santa Ana community.
Between 2006 and 2011, BOFLTE produced over 20 world premieres,
including Cherrie Moraga's Digging Up the Dirt—co-produced with
Moraga's See-What Productions and supported by a 2010 National
Association of Latino Arts and Culture Master Artist Grant--which was
named to the "Best of 2010" lists by OC Weekly and Examiner.com.
In 2011, BOFLTE closed its physical space on 5th and Broadway in DTSA.
Its final two productions were Angel of the Desert by Janine Salinas
Schomberg, presented at South Coast Repertory, and When Songleaders
Go Bad and Calzones Cagados, solo pieces by founding members
Elizabeth Isela Szekeresh and Sara Guerrero.
Since its 2015 re-emergence, it's remained committed to its mission and,
for the past decade, has served as an incubator for voices historically
excluded from theater. BOFLTE offers programming that nurtures
storytelling, playwriting, producing, and acting. As artists-in-residence at
GCAC, BOFLTE brings seasoned theater professionals to facilitate high_
quality workshops—'both in person and online. No one is ever turned away
for lack of experience, and all community programming is free.
To honor this milestone and celebrate ten years of radical storytelling,
community building, and cultural resilience, BOFLTE is creating a 10-Year
Anthology that showcases the diverse voices, talents, and lived
experiences that have shaped our ensemble and broader community.
Some of the newer works that BOFLTE has supported, developed, or
helped produce include:
Olvidados: A Mexican American Corrido (UMass Amherst),
Sometimes, I Wish... (Jose Casas / TYA USA/ CSUF),
Joy in Uncertainty: A Glory Chicken Adventure (Sigrid Gilmer/ BIPOC
Superhero Project),
Canto de Anaheim, Feast for the Dead (Pacific Symphony),
Cantos Cuentos y Corridos de Santa Ana (Breath of Fire Latina Theater
Ensemble)
List of Key Staff/Board of Directors
BOFTLE_Board_Staff.docx
Organization Operational Budget
BOFLTE_2026_Operational_Budget.pdf
Narrative for Project [Narrative, Storytelling as Resistance
proposed use of
funds: Project Description
Storytelling as Resistance is a year-long, multi-track arts programming
initiative that offers Santa Ana residents free and low-cost access to
writing, performance, and broadcast storytelling, rooted in the cultural
traditions, lived experiences, and shared histories that define our
community. Under the leadership of Executive Founding Artistic Director
Sara Guerrero, and with the full depth of BOFLTE's artistic staff, the project
responds directly to the grant theme, Stories That Unite Us in Santa Ana,
by treating the act of storytelling itself as the connective tissue between
generations, languages, and neighborhoods. In a moment when many
Santa Ana residents face heightened vulnerability, including the chilling
effect of increased ICE activity on public participation, the ability to gather
safely, create freely, and share one's story is not incidental to community
life. It is essential to it,
The project brings together six interconnected program tracks, each
serving a different dimension of creative community life. Playwriting Office
Hours for Community, which encompasses both Dirty Draft Sundays and
the bilingual virtual forum Sin Barreras Online, provides a consistent
monthly gathering for writers at every level, a dedicated space for drafting,
feedback, and creative community that meets people where they are,
whether in person or online. Rio de Mi Vida invites participants to excavate
their own ancestral histories through research, writing, and collective
storytelling, centering the proposition that cultural memory is not nostalgia
but primary creative material. The ALTOS Workshop, developed in
partnership with the legendary Teatro Campesino and facilitator Christy
Sandoval, introduces participants to the tradition of political theater, short,
sharp, ensemble-driven performance with deep roots in Latinx labor and
community organizing. The Radio Production Workshop, led by Mark Torres
of KPFK 90.7FM's Travel Tips for Aztlan, teaches audio editing, voice
technique, and narrative storytelling that weaves interviews with music,
and gives each participant the extraordinary opportunity to broadcast their
own 1 5-minute segment on a live radio program heard across Los Angeles.
Our Stories for the Stage compresses BOFLTE's signature playwriting
intensive into a single weekend, guiding participants through a complete
draft-and-revision cycle. Finally, a series of three Master Classes with
nationally celebrated Latinx playwrights Octavio Solis, Luis Alfaro, and
Karen Zacarias gives Santa Ana community members direct access to
artists who have shaped American theater, classes made free to
participants through a combination of board funding and the Santa Ana Arts
Grant.
Together, these programs form an ecosystem, not a menu of isolated
offerings, but an interconnected creative community in which a participant
might write their first monologue in Playwriting Office Hours, trace its roots
in Rio de Mi Vida, learn to perform it in the ALTOS Workshop, record it in
the Radio Production Workshop, and eventually develop it into a full play in
Our Stories for the Stage. That continuum, and the relationships built within
it, is the story that unites us.
Supplemental BOFLTE does not anticipate requiring City permits or public space for this
Question 1: Please project. All programming will be held at BOFLTE's existing headquarters in
describe any the Downtown Santa Ana Artist Village or via Zoom. BOFLTE maintains a
additional City of current Santa Ana business license and general liability insurance. No
Santa Ana resources public art installation is planned.
required for your
project (permits,
public space,
licenses etc.) that
you are required to
obtain?
Letter/Email from
Property Owner (for
public art
installations, use of
city parks, use of city
parklets)
Supplemental Storytelling as Resistance is a new project configuration that builds on
Question 2: Is this a BOFLTE's established programming infrastructure. Several component
new or existing tracks , including Dirty Draft Sundays, Sin Barreras Online, Rio de Mi Vida,
program/project? and Our Stories for the Stage, are existing programs with demonstrated
community participation. The Radio Production Workshop with Mark
Torres, the ACTOS collaboration with Teatro Campesino, and the Master
Class series with Octavio Solis, Luis Alfaro, and Karen Zacarias are new
programming additions being introduced in this cycle.
Supplemental All programming is free or on a sliding scale and open to Santa Ana
Question 3: How will residents. In-person workshops are held at BOFLTE's studio in the
the proposed project Downtown Santa Ana Artist Village. Sin Barreras Online is fully virtual,
be presented or removing transportation and scheduling barriers. Radio Production
shared with the Workshop participants will broadcast live segments on KPFK 90.7 FM,
public? Will the art giving their work a public platform heard throughout greater Los Angeles.
display, event or The final new works showcase will be free and open to the public. BOFLTE
performance be free is bilingual (English/Spanish) in its outreach, community agreements, and
and accessible to the facilitation.
public?
Supplemental Storytelling as Resistance addresses a fundamental need: the right of
Question 4: How will Santa Ana residents to see themselves, their families, and their histories
this project enrich the reflected in the culture their city produces. BOFLTE's programming
quality of life for provides not only artistic skill development but also a community of
Santa Ana belonging, a gathering place where participants are valued as creative
residents? agents, not recipients of services. In a period of heightened fear in the
community, particularly around immigration enforcement, BOFLTE's
spaces, both in-person and virtual, offer safety, affirmation, and creative
freedom. Youth participants gain performance and writing skills; adult
participants deepen their connection to cultural identity; all participants
build relationships across generations and backgrounds, The Radio
Production Workshop in particular creates a direct, ongoing public platform
for Santa Ana voices on regional airwaves.
Supplemental Storytelling as Resistance generates direct economic activity in Santa Ana
Question 5: Describe by employing local and regional teaching artists, facilitators, and arts
how your project will professionals, all at equitable rates. Every dollar invested in BOFLTE's
stimulate economic programming circulates within the local arts ecosystem. The Master Class
development for the series, underwritten by BOFLTE's board and made accessible by the Santa
City of Santa Ana. Ana grant, brings nationally recognized artists to Santa Ana, elevating the
city's profile as a destination for serious Latinx arts practice. Participants
who develop their skills through BOFLTE's programs go on to pursue
careers in education, media, civic engagement, and the professional arts,
building a skilled, creative workforce rooted in Santa Ana. BOFLTE's
presence in the Downtown Santa Ana Artist Village contributes to the
cultural vitality and foot traffic of that district. The Radio Production
Workshop equips participants with broadcast media skills directly
applicable to careers in media, communications, and arts administration.
Original artwork design or Schedule of Activities/Curriculum
BOFLTE_picture_exam pies.pdf
Project Timeline
Time line_grant_25-26.pdf
Line Item Budget
BOFLTE_Proposed_Project_Line_Item_Budget_2025_2026.pdf
Letters of support (up to 3)
1._RDC_Letter_of Support_Breath_of_Fire_2026.pdf
2._GCAC_Letter of Support_BOFLTE_2026.pdf
3._T_Scwh i n g e_LOS_BOF LTE2026.p df
BREATH OF FIRE 1 1 THEATER ENSEMBLE
City of Santa Ana , Investing in the Artist Grant Application
0. • 1 Project.- i • as Resistance
Project Narrative, Storytelling as Resistance
Project Description
Storytelling as Resistance is a year-long, multi-track arts programming initiative that offers Santa
Ana residents tree and low-cost access to writing, performance, and broadcast storytelling,
rooted in the cultural traditions, lived experiences, and shared histories that define our
community. Under the leadership of Executive Founding Artistic Director Sara Guerrero, and
with the full depth of BOFTLE's artistic staff, the project responds directly to the grant theme,
Stories That Unite Us in Santa Ana, by treating the act of storytelling itself as the connective
tissue between generations, languages, and neighborhoods. In a moment when many Santa Ana
residents face heightened vulnerability, including the chilling effect of increased ICE activity on
public participation, the ability to gather safely, create freely, and share one's story is not
incidental to community life. It is essential to it.
The project brings together six interconnected program tracks, each serving a different dimension
of creative community life. Playwriting Office Hours for Community, which encompasses both
Dirty Draft Sundays and the bilingual virtual forum Sin Barreras Online, provides a consistent
monthly gathering for writers at every level, a dedicated space for drafting, feedback, and
creative community that meets people where they are, whether in person or online. Rio de Mi
Vida invites participants to excavate their own ancestral histories through research, writing, and
collective storytelling, centering the proposition that cultural memory is not nostalgia but
primary creative material. The ALTOS Workshop, developed in partnership with the legendary
Teatro Campesino and facilitator Christy Sandoval, introduces participants to the tradition of
political theater, short, sbarp, ensemble-driven performance with deep roots in Latinx labor and
community organizing. The Radio Production Workshop, led by Mark Torres of KPFK 90.7FM's
Travel Tips for Aztlan, teaches audio editing, voice technique, and narrative storytelling that
weaves interviews with music, and gives each participant the extraordinary opportunity to
broadcast their own 15-minute segment on a live radio program heard across Los Angeles. Our
Stories for the Stage compresses BOFTLE's signature playwriting intensive into a single
weekend, guiding participants through a complete draft-and-revision cycle. Finally, a series of
three Master Classes with nationally celebrated Latinx playwrights Octavio Solis, Luis Alfaro,
and Karen Zacarias gives Santa Ana community members direct access to artists who have
shaped American theater, classes made free to participants through a combination of board
funding and the Santa Ana Arts Grant.
Together, these programs form an ecosystem, not a menu of isolated offerings, but an
interconnected creative community in which a participant might write their first monologue in
Playwriting Office Hours,trace its roots in Rio de Mi Vida, learn to perform it in the ALTOS
Workshop, record it in the Radio Production Workshop, and eventually develop it into a full play
in Our Stories for the Stage. That continuum, and the relationships built within it, is the story that
unites us.
Breath of Fire Latina Theater Ensemble
BOFTLE
Board of Directors & Artistic Staff
Board
Name Role
Adriana Alba Board Chair
Margo Rofe Board Secretary
Debra Gomez Russell Board Co-Treasurer
Tony Viramontes Board Member/ Fundraising Chair
Yvonne Flores Board Co-Treasurer
Artistic Staff& Leadership
Name Role
Sara Guerrero Executive Founding Artistic Director
Diana Burbano Literary Manager
Angela Apodaca Artistic Associate, Arts Admin
2026 Resident & Teaching Artists
Name Disciplines
Elvia Susana Rubalcava Writer - Filmmaker - Poet - Producer
Melanie Queponds Director Dramaturg - Producer - Educator
Mercy Vasquez Director Playwright Actor . Educator
Jose Casas Playwright - Director Educator
Diana Burbano Actor - Playwright � Dramaturg - Educator
Sara Guerrero Director - Playwright • Producer � Educator
Angela Apodaca Actor • Writer - Poet
Moises Vazquez Musician • Composer • Music Director
brearhoffire.org
BOFLTE 2026 Budget/Projected Estimate
BOFLTE 2026 Budget Mrojected Estimate TOTAL 106,800
Item Amount
Operational expesnse 10,000
Shelving(Built-ins) 1500
Painting 1500
Cabinets wt Locks 1000
Writing/Workshop materials, printing,archival resources 1500
Zoom/tech I streaming for hybrid programming I cloud storage 1 website $2,000
Audio equipment,mics,headphones,Adobe Audition licenses $2,000
Insurance&business license $500
10 year anniversary anthology(printing costs) 1000 1000
Master Classes I Workshops $29,500
Office Hours Teaching Artists $6,000
-Rio de Mi Vida, Facilitator fees(up to 6 sessions) 2500
Radio Production, Mark Torres,up to a 6-week workshop 3500
-Our Stories for the Stage 3500
Professional Development(Teatro Campesino) 5000
Master Classes 9000
Latina Theater Director Convivio(CTG to Host) 300
-light snacks and refreshments 300
Grant Awards-Gina Davidson 2500
2 Ensemble Artists(1 k each) 2000
1 Jr Ensemle Artist(500) 500
Playwright 1000
Dramaturg 500
Thank you/Parking stipends 1000
Prod Materials 1000
Prod Associates 1000
Fundraisers) 3000
Toast y Amistad Feb 28,2025 2000
End of Year 1000
Development 2000
Miscellanous 1500
7(data
es 3000
reach,social media,print,community partners 6000
,survey support,grant reporting,prgrm support,etc.) 36000
s I Occupany Maintenance 5000
-Payroll Fees(Austin Creative Alliance Paymaster) 2500
Workshop space/Venue(In-Kind Per Artist Residency) $42,000 $0
TOTALw/ Workshop space!VENUE Value amount 148800
TOTAL 106,800
3/23/2026
BOFLTE 2026 Budget/Projected Estimate
[1] Funding from NLT{ 2025-26
3/23/2026
BOFLTE I Investing in the Artist Grant 12026-2027 j Storytelling as Resistance
Project T! efine
June 2026 Grant award confirmed; contracts issued All artists under contract;
to teaching artists and facilitators materials procured
.tune 2026 Radio Production Workshop with Mark Participants learn audio editing,voice,
Torres launches interview technique;first broadcasts air
on KPFK
June 2026 Our Stories for the Stage,one weekend intensive Participants complete a full draft
and revision of original work
Summer 2026 Master Classes with Octavio Solis,Luis Alfaro, Community writers access nationally
and Karen Zacarlas(3 sessions) recognized Latinx playwrights; Santa
Ana grant funds enable free
participation
November- Playwriting Office Hours(Dirty Draft Sundays+ Writers community established;first
December Sin 6arreras)begin regular monthly cycle drafts in progress
2026
,January Rio de Mi Vida monthly workshops begin Participants researching ancestral
2027 and community histories
February ALTOS workshop with Christy Sandoval! Participants gain physical theater
2027 Teatro Campesino launched and political performance skills
May 2027 Final participant showcase l reading of new works Community cefehrat on;new Santa
Ana stories given public voice
Ongoing Playwriting Office Hours and Rio de Mi Sustained community of practice,
Monthly Vida continue through grant period new works developed
July 2027 Interim and final reports submitted;archiving Grant requirements fulfilled;
of work completed project documented for future
cycles
Page 1 I breathoffire.org I Santa Ana,CA
t
l
F
i
l
I
I
iI
t
I
UPDATED BOFLTE Project Budget Proposal 2025-2028
i
BOF'LTE:Storytelling as Resistance"Stories That Unite Us In Santa Ana"City Arts Project Budget Proposal2026.2026
Linettdm fSsidg'at,Page 1.,Exiirsnciitures
�Uescr1jltldn 'S�'Grarit Fundy Ot'tiar F�urids. 'i'ofai Gist� ,
IPE~RSONNEL.Teaching Ar59ta✓3Facilitators _._..._.
Playwrft Offtce Hours,Teaching artist fees(up to 16 asealons)(SIn
i Barrens,Alrty Draft Sundays,other staryteiling worlcsho &? $4,000. $2,000 $6,000 l
1Rio doM!Vida,Faciiitatorfees(up to6sestns) _$1,000, $1,600 a $2,5043
:ALTOS Workshop,Lakln Vaidazl Chrtsly Sandoval:Teatro Camposino
�honoradurn $2,504 $2 500 $5,000.
i Radro Pmduction,Mark Torres,up to a 8-week workshop $2,500 $1,000 $%wo i
'.Our Stories for the Stage,Weakend Intensive,2 teaching artists $2.500. $1,000 $3,500'
lvtaster Classes,OcEavla Solis,LuIsAifav,Karen Zacarias,$to.(honoraria, - _-
`bvard-funded:up to 6 sessions) $500, $8,600
Persontte[Subtotal $13,Q54; $75,500 $28,500 [
'
i
;EQUIPMENT,MATERIALS&SUPPLIES
Wrifing materials,printing,archival resources $600 $900 $1,50_0
Audio equipment.mics,headphones,AdobeAudiiion licenses $1,0661 $934 $2,000
Materials Subtotal $1,esfi. $.1,834, $3,500
SPECIAL EVENTS&OPERATIONS
;Venus rental,workshops,intensive,rrrastsrdasses $0 542,000 $42,000'
:,Markeflng&outreach,social media,print,a mrnunity partners $100" $5A00 $9,10t1
Insurance&business license $500 $600 $1010
;Administrative(reporting,documentation,archiving) $600, $4,500 $5_.wa
CaWayMastar(Payroll serArives and fees) _.._ $0: $2,600 - $2,500
Zoom f tech 1 strsamtng for hybrid programming I cloud storage $0, $2,000, $2,000,
Opaiatioris'Sumota1 $1,1u0;. $5ii,604i $37;66tD
TOTAL PROGRAM BUDGET $45,766. $74,834 $90,640
OM12026
3
t
i
BOFLTE I Investing in the Artist Grant 1 2025-2026 Storytelling as Resistance
Schedule of Activities
Date Activity Supplies Artists Facilitator(s)
June 2026- Sin Barreras:writers of all Writing 1 Melanie Queponds
December 2026 levels are inspired and materials,
Twice a month supported in the Zoom license
exploration and
development of their
writing
January 2027- Rio de Mi Vida, Writing 1 Elvia Susana
March 2027 Ancestral materials, Rubalcava
Twice a month storytelling through archival
research& collective resources
writing
February 2027 ACTOS Workshop, Movement 3 Lakin Valdez, Sara
4 classes Physical theater& space, props Guerrero+Christy
political performance Sandoval, Teatro
with Teatro Campesino Campesino
November Playwriting Office Writing 2 Sara Guerrero,
2026- Hours for materials, Diana Burbano
December 2026 Community(Dirty Draft Zoom license
Twice a month Sundays + Sin Barreras
Online)
June 13&20 2026 Radio Production Adobe Audition 1 Mark Torres, KPFK
Workshop , Audio or equiv., mics, 90.7FM
editing, voice technique, headphones
interview& broadcast
storytelling
June 18&25 2026 Our Stories for the Stage , Scripts, 2 Diana Burbano,
Intensive weekend rehearsal Sara Guerrero
workshop, full drafting& space
revision cycle
June and Juiy Master Classes , Octavio Venue,AN 1 per session Octavio Solis I Luis
2026 3 sessions Solis, Luis Alfaro, Karen honoraria Alfaro I Karen
Zacarias; board funded, (board Zacarias
community participation funded)
enabled by Santa Ana
grant
ff -
Marlene Pena-Marin
Artistic Director
Ms. Rosie Chavarria Pena March 20, 2026
Founder
City of Santa Ana
Board of Directors Arts and Culture Grant Review Committee
€Vorrro Trujillo, Jo RE: Breath of Fire Latina Theater Ensemble application to the City of Santa
President&Chair
Ana - Investing in the Artist Grant!Organizational 2025-2026
Luz Peralta
Vice President I submit this letter of recommendation in support of the Breath of Fire Latina Theater
Rosario zourelr Ensemble and their programming, "Storytelling as Resistance,"
Secretary
Lenora Pena-Sanchez Relampago del Cielo Grupo Folklorico (RDC) has had the great pleasure to work
Treasurer with Sara Guerrero and Breath of Fire through a Pacific Symphony partnership for
their family concert series at the Segerstrom Center Concert Hall and the Meng
Concert Hall at California State Fullerton. The concert was a story about a family
Members Concert
through loss, learns to celebrate "Dia de Los Muertosl Day of the Dead." The
alive McCullough story featured RDC company dancers as part of the story. Additionally our student
Chuck Garcia dancers were showcased in a pre-show event in the lobby.
Cynthia€nda
Alex Martinez
Luz Mendez We are excited to once again work and include Breath of Fire in our next endeavor.
Teresa Mercado-Coto With Relampago del Cielo celebrating its 50th anniversary, Breath of Fire is working
Eva Rom rez with us to incorporate our company's rich stories and history into our concert
Valerie Sy performances. We are excited to bring our story to the stage through our
involvement in Breath of Fire's "Storytelling as Resistance" programming.
We are confident.that any grant funds awarded to Breath of Fire Latina Theater
Ensemble will have a meaningful and positive impact on the community
Thank you for your time,
Sincerely,
Marlene Pei a-Marin
Artistic Director
NP
PO Box 3158 Santa Ana, CA 92703 «_._ (714) 881-4732 info drdcgf.org
JJGCAC
March 21, 202E
Dear City of Santa Ana - Investing in the Arts Organization Grant Review Committee,
It is with great enthusiasm and heartfelt support that I submit this letter of recommendation for the
remarkable artistic leadership team of Sara Guerrero and Diana Burbano, along with the talented
collective of Breath of Fire Latina Theater Ensemble, and their impactful programming, "Storytelling as
Resistance."
For the past decade, we at Grand Central Art Center(GCAC) have been privileged to host Breath of Fire
Latina Theater Ensemble as an artist-in-residence through our international artist-in-residence program.
Their residency has been met with immense appreciation from our audiences and fellow residents alike,
thanks to their engaging programs, workshops, organized activities, staged plays, and meaningful
community collaborations.
Sara Guerrero, the founding executive artistic director of Breath of Fire, is an extraordinary artist, writer,
producer, and educator. Throughout her residency, she has generously shared her time and expertise,
engaging with diverse groups ranging from university students to members of the greater community. Her
dedication, along with that of Literary Director Diana Burbano and the entire ensemble, has been nothing
short of inspiring. Despite challenges such as last summer's U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement
(ICE) operations in Santa Ana, which disrupted public events and created widespread fear, the ensemble
demonstrated resilience and adaptability. They pivoted their programming to continue serving the
community, just as they did during the COVID-19 pandemic by transitioning to virtual engagement on a
national scale. Today, they have embraced a hybrid model of in-person and online activities, further
expanding their reach and impact.
Breath of Fire Latina Theater Ensemble has not only strengthened its own organization but has also
empowered countless individuals through its free and accessible programming, such as "Storytelling as
Resistance."Their work creates greater awareness of critical social issues, while fostering creativity,
connection, and empowerment within the Santa Ana community and beyond.
Through my many conversations with Ms. Guerrero and members of the ensemble, it is clear that they
embody an unwavering commitment„ deep understanding, and genuine passion for their craft and for the
communities they serve. Their work is infused with a unique ability to highlight often-overlooked aspects
of our everyday lives, offering fresh perspectives and profound social observations. Everything they
produce is executed with professionalism, integrity, and a contagious joy that inspires everyone who has
the privilege of engaging with them.
Breath of Fire Latina Theater Ensemble is an organization that I will continue to follow with admiration and
respect. Their innovative and meaningful contributions to the arts and the community are truly
unparalleled—they are a jewel of the Santa Ana community. For all these reasons, I wholeheartedly and
enthusiastically support Breath of Fire Latina Theater Ensemble and their programming in receiving
support through the Investing in the Artist Grant: Arts Organizations.
Please feel free to contact me at 714.567.7234 if you have any questions or need further information.
Respectfully submitted,
John JD. Spiak
Director/Chief Curator
CSUF Grand Central Art Center
GRAND CENTRAL ART CENTER, 125 N. BROADWAY, SANTA ANA, CA 92701
20th of March 2026
City of Santa Ana - Investing in the Arts Organization Grant Review Committee,
I submit this letter of recommendation in support of the Breath of Eire Latina Theater Ensemble and
its programming,"Storytelling as Resistance."
In 2017 Santa Ana High School's (SANS) began a partnership with Breath of Fire Latina Theater
Ensemble (BOFLTE). The opportunities created and continued by this partnership have been profound
for our students. Over the course of the past eight years, through our partnership, SAHS students have
worked with scenic designers, fight coordinators, playwrights, dramaturgs, directors and actors
exploring each and every aspect of theater arts alongside working Latinx professionals in the theater
industry providing both valuable educational experiences as well as mentors that reflect the same
backgrounds and experiences as our students.
Some of the projects that we have participated in and collaborated on include the following: Gathering,
Harnessing and Unleashing the Fire."where our students participated in workshops in building their
skill sets in acting, singing and directing; Corridos, Cantos and Cuentos of Santa Ana, a musically
driven, theatrical re-imagining with the use of the Corrido (a nearly 300 year old cherished Mexican and
other parts of the United States tradition form of storytelling form through) of the untold stories of the -
people, the history, and or the stories of Santa Ana from the heart. This past school year the artists of
the BOFLTE engaged with our students to support the creation of their own corridor and connection to
their community. At the culminating event, students of ours performed and shared their songs within our
community presented earlier this September,
Leyendas, a series of five short plays that were adapted from Latin American folktales. The plays were
student written, directed and performed with guidance coming from the Breath of Flre artists through
every phase of the creative process. They were provided writing workshops with playwright Diana
Burbano, direction from Sara Guerrero, mask and movement expert Estela Garcia, music and
songwriting from Moises Vasquez, and stunt coordinating with Richard Soto. Each of the artists helped
our students to blend their own visions and creativity with their own skills and training and, although the
show was amazing, the true outcome was in the student-artists that were inspired and empowered far
beyond any normal high school theater arts experience. Each year, we built on that success and each
year the work got better. We created a New Works Festival, again with original works written and
directed by students, we created a show titled Voces de Santa Ana (Voices of Santa Ana) where we
created a devised piece that reflected and celebrated our own community. By the time we worked on
Teatro Santos: Rising Spirits, a collaboration between UC Irvine's Brown Bag Theater Company
(UCI), South Coast Repertory Theater (SCR) and SAHS where original works by SANS students were
performed by UCI actors along with SCR actors, the connections and collaborative skills necessary to
accomplish this massive undertaking were developed through the partnership with BOFLTE and,
looking back from Leyendas to Teatro Santos, it is remarkable to see the growth and opportunities that
were only possible because of BOFLTE and their commitment to our community, and specifically, our
students.
Our students, because of these powerful connections provided by BOFLTE, have gained scholarships,
internships and have been accepted into university theater arts programs and other related fields. The
preparation and inspiration that these students received from BOFLTE artists has been incredible. The
impact on me, the instructor, has been equally powerful. Working alongside the artists impacted my
own work in two ways. First, they introduced me to the latest and most current practices and
technology in the field which allowed me to ensure that my students are also engaging with current
practices and technology. The second is that having artists that share a cultural background with my
students (a background that I do not share) gave me permission to authentically enter this space
without fear. Empowering my students and celebrating their culture, history and community has always
been an important value to me as a teacher, but when a team of Latinxle adults entered into my
classroom filled with Latinxle students, through their example, it became easier and clearer how to be
intentional with my role within that context and I learned to be a stronger ally and mentor for my
students in return. The partnership with BOFLTE made me the teacher I wanted to be for my students
and I am forever grateful for that.
BOFLTE takes seriously their role in empowering our community through theater arts. Through their
dozens of free workshops on writing, on storytelling, on all aspects of theater, they provide a much
needed space for members of our community to find their voices, tell their stories and, in doing so,
empower their community. BOFLTE, for all its purpose and its important role within our community, is
the result of passionate individuals working behind the scenes to make it into existence every day. It
does not exist without the hard work and commitment of the directors and lead artists. It is important
work and its place in Santa Ana is vital to our community. We are our stories. To quote Dolores
Huerta, "All a person has is their story. Who they are, what they've gone through—this is their story.
And when you try to deny them their story, you are taking away their power." Inversely, when you
develop their voices and give them the tools to tell their stories, you give them their power. BOFLTE,
above all else, gives this community their power through their stories, through their voices. It is
inspiring work and I am proud to be associated with them.
Sincerely,
Terry Schwinge
Theater Arts Advisor
Office: 714-788-9320 1 Email: Terry.Schwinge@sausd.us
CITY OF SANTA ANA ..
Risk Management a division of Human Resources
Managing Risk through Awareness and Action
AFFIDAVIT OF EXEMPTION FOR AUTOMOBILE LIABILITY INSURANCE
I, ("Representative"),attest that I am an authorized
(Name and Title of Vendor Representative) 4
representative of 3201 L, S + t l�Q (,OTL � 1.� V' ("Company"),and
(Cons /ant/Company?Jame)
possess the authority to legally bind Company.
In my capacity as Representative of Company, I represent and confirm the following,as relates to the
agreement between Company and City of Santa Ana,agreement number
("Agreement")to provide ..,..•.__ ("Services"):
(Services to be provided under agreemem/contract)
During the course and scope of Company's agreement with the City of Santa Ana,
Company employees,consultants,representatives,and agents will not use and/or drive
any Company owned/rented/leased/borrowed vehicles to perform Services to, for,or on
behalf of City of Santa Ana_
If at any time it is found that Company is not adhering to any and/or all of the statements in this
document and does not maintain the minimum automobile liability insurance coverage as
required in the Agreement,it will be considered a breach of Agreement rendering the Agreement
null and void and Co pany will be fully liable for any and all damages.
Signature C
Cr ,
Print Name
Title
Contact lnfarmation,i.e..Telephone Number and/or Email Address
Affidavit of Exemption for Automobile LAbWty insurance 11.12.2024
CITY OF SANTA ANA
Risk Management a division of Human Resources ;
Managing Risk through Awareness and Action
AFFIDAVIT OF EXEMPTION FOR WORKERS' COMPENSATION INSURANCE
("Representative"),attest that 1 am an authorized
(Name and Title of Ven or Representative) �
representative of "a*uk V`C LC�t e,V�f�IS� �' ("Company"),and
( onsultant)Company Name)
possess the authority to legally bind Company.
In my capacity as Representative of Company, I represent and confirm the following,as relates to the
agreement between Company and City of Santa Ana,agreement number
("Agreement")to provide 43::�-
t & ("Services"):
(Services to be provided under agreoment/contract)
During the course and scope of Company's agreement with the City of Santa Ana,Company will
not employ any person in any manner so as to become subject to the workers' compensation laws
of California,and agree that if Company should become subject to the workers' compensation
provisions of Section 3700 of the Labor Code,Company shall forthwith comply with the
provisions and provide proof of workers' compensation coverage immediately.
If at any time it is found that Company is not adhering to any and/or all of the statements in this
document and does not maintain the minimum professional liability insurance coverage as
required in the Agreement,it will be considered a breach of Agreement rendering the Agreement
null and void and Comp y will be fully liable for any and all damages.
/ I
Signature p e
" Print Name
Title
—a)0-T—LT—E Q v tQ t . Cep`r
Contact information,i.e., Telephone Number and;or Email Address
WA NINC: FAILURE TO SECURE WORKERS'COMPENSATION COVERAGE IS UNLAWFUL,
AND SHALL SUBJECT AN EMPLOYER TO CRIMINAL PENALTIES AND CIVIL FINES UP TO
ONE HUNDRED THOUSANT DOLLARS(S100,000). IN ADDITION TO THE COST OF
COMPENSATION,DAMAGES AS PROVIDED FOR IN SECTION 3706 OF THE LABOR CODE,
INTEREST,AND ATTORNEY'S FEES.
Affidavit of Exemption For Workers'Compensation Insurance 11,12,2024