As Bócon celebrates its sixth anniversary as a 501c3 nonprofit, we reflect on a journey that began in 2010, born from a community's passion and a call for storytelling.
Our story starts in National City, where a free youth theatre program, originally called the National City Youth Theatre Ensemble, served 4th to 6th graders. These young creatives were bussed to the local high school, immersing themselves in the world of theatre through the guidance of professional artists and high school mentors. When funding cuts threatened this creative haven, the families who cherished the program spoke up. Their collective voice was not just a plea but a commitment—they volunteered, raised funds, and ensured the survival and evolution of what would proudly be known as Bócon.
The name "Bocón," translating to "big mouth" in Spanish, it's a bold reclaiming of a term that can have a negative connotation. For us, it underscores the essential role of vocal storytelling in our community—it's about telling our stories on our terms, a mission at the heart of our initiatives. This commitment extends beyond after-school programs. Bocón consistently presents professional theatre for family audiences, and hosts free global arts summer camps and enriching after-school arts activities. Our impact resonates during the school day too, with long-term arts residencies across K-5 grades, notably an eleven-year cultural arts residency at Balboa Elementary.
Bócon is becoming a cultural beacon in South San Diego, striving to become known as the city's Theatre for Youth. Our productions, both adaptations and original works, explore themes from social justice and racism to empowerment and grief through lenses like Filipino mythology, hip-hop narratives, and even military experiences, all of which authentically reflect the culture of the families that we serve. These stories don't just entertain; they provoke thought and foster a deeper connection with our community's diverse experiences.
The milestone of obtaining our nonprofit status in 2018 marked a new chapter of growth. This status has not only stabilized our team but also expanded our reach and deepened our impact through enhanced funding and resources.
As we celebrate six years of being a nonprofit—and more than a decade of community storytelling—we look ahead with excitement. The future is bright with plans to broaden our programs, deepen our community engagements, and continue being a space where young voices can lead the way in telling the stories that shape us. At Bócon, we are more than just a theatre; we are a community where every big mouth is not just heard, but celebrated. Join us as we step into the next act of our vibrant, transformative journey.
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