The recent production of “The Sins of Sor Juana” at the Stan State Theatre invited the community to explore the little known world of Sor Juana Ines de la Cruz.
This incredible woman’s story carries the theme of erasing one’s culture to try to fit into a mold placed on an individual. This adaptation employs code-switching, shifting one’s speech, actions and behaviors depending on the social context.
For Anna Rose, the Director, this play is more than a retelling of Sor Juana’s life. It is about freedom of expression and how it is important to be different and diverse. Cast members share their personal connections to the play’s exploration of heritage, culture and voice.
They chose not only to celebrate Sor Juana’s story but also to amplify the experiences of bilingual and bicultural communities. In doing so, “The Sins of Sor Juana” transforms history into a conversation with the present.