La Guagua 47: An American Musical

A bilingual musical written by Alba Martínez and directed by Laurie Woolery explores themes of belonging, migration, and the search for home. Framed around an eye-opening ride on SEPTA’s 47 bus taken by a Puerto Rican girl new to Philadelphia, this world premiere production celebrates and reflects the city’s Latino community—blending musical styles such as salsa, bolero, bachata, bomba, reggaetón, soul, and hip-hop—and is performed in both Spanish and English. The production also serves as the launch of Philadelphia Theater Company’s community engagement initiative, We the People, which probes the meaning of civic-minded theater in contemporary America and creates high-quality work that reflects the people of Philadelphia.  

The total grant amount represents project funding plus an additional 20% in unrestricted general operating support.