There are a handful of great actors that never force their way into the spotlight and therefore fly under the radar of the celebrity chasing public. The first example I can think of is John Cazale, probably better known as Fredo Corleone in The Godfather. Another good example is John Leguizamo, who you’ll recognise from classics such as Romeo & Juliet and Carlito’s Way.
John Leguizamo was born in Bogotá, Colombia and moved to New York City when he was just four. He’s worked with Brian De Palma, Spike Lee and Baz Luhrmann. His CV is long. Really long.
Now Leguizamo, much like many other Colombian ex-patriots, is returning to his native land in order to rediscover the land he left 47 years ago. He is bringing with him a production, entitled ‘Ghetto Klown’.
The production is a monologue that was devised during Leguizamo’s work on Paradise Travel, a Simon Brand film in which he played an illegal immigrant. The production company for the film, Content Films, continued working with Leguizamo in order to develop the piece.
‘Ghetto Klown’ is a roughly autobiographical piece of work that follows on from a series of monologues Leguizamo performed in the US. Audience members for those included Madonna, Al Pacino and Arthur Miller. Though his audience in Colombia might not be studded with so many stars, the premise will undoubtedly speak to many locals who have had family leave, or left and come back themselves. It follows Leguizamo’s humble beginnings in the Queens, New York, and how life as a latino immigrant in the States shaped his life and career.
‘Ghetto Klown’ will be performed in 2012 on the 27th, 28th and 29th of January at the Teatro Julio Mario Santo Domingo.
Performances in Cali will take place on January 31st and February 1st at the Teatro Jorge Isaacs.
In Medellín, you’ll find Leguizamo performing on the 3rd and 4th of February at the Teatro de la Universidad de Medellín.
Book early, tickets are sure to sell fast.
Paul
