Voices of Vision: Daniel Jáquez on Imagination, Action, and Building What’s Next

In this edition of Voices of Vision, we’re honored to spotlight Daniel Jáquez, Bocón’s Board President and a celebrated theater-maker, director, producer, and translator whose roots span Off-Broadway and international stages. Though he’s relatively new to the board, Daniel has been a long-time admirer of Bocón’s work—and now, he’s helping guide its next bold chapter.

A Director, a Dreamer, and Now—Board President

“I moved to San Diego in 2016 and met Crystal [Mercado] at an Old Globe event,” Daniel recalls. “I’ve followed her work ever since.” When the opportunity arose to formally join the Bocón board in 2023, Daniel didn’t hesitate. “Crystal’s vision, her leadership—it’s urgent and necessary. I knew I wanted to support her and the organization in any way I could.”

A passionate advocate for arts access and education, Daniel brings extensive leadership experience in the theater world. He’s not only directed and produced across the U.S. and abroad, but he’s also led theater companies and deeply understands how art builds community.

“I bring that shared passion and drive that fuels Bocón,” he says. “As a fellow theater artist, I know what it takes—and I believe in what we’re building.”

A Mission That Nurtures and Uplifts

To Daniel, Bocón’s mission goes far beyond the stage. “We exist to awaken the imagination and nurture the capacity to dream,” he explains. “Our programs are designed to develop the whole child—starting with self-knowledge, then empathy, creativity, and discernment.”

This commitment to whole-person development is what makes Bocón’s work so vital. From performances to in-school residencies, the organization provides high-quality arts programming that gives students and families space to tell their own stories—and be seen.

As he puts it: “Art fuels community. And Bocón makes sure the community is invited in.”

Meeting Challenges with Creativity and Commitment

Like many arts organizations, Bocón faces significant challenges in an increasingly competitive and underfunded landscape. “Audience engagement and funding are always front of mind,” Daniel shares. “Especially as schools lose or reallocate arts education budgets.”

To address this, the board is actively expanding its network of supporters, seeking sustainable solutions, and growing deeper roots in the community. “Our job is to keep arts education alive and thriving in our region,” he says.

A Stage of Our Own

One milestone that’s especially exciting? The board has begun discussions about creating a dedicated theater space for young audiences.

“We envision a space where families feel at home and where we can produce a full season of work,” Daniel shares. “We’d love to hear from our community—what would you want to see in a space like this?”

It’s a dream worth sharing. According to American Alliance for Theatre & Education, access to theater for young audiences is linked to improved empathy, creativity, and academic outcomes—a powerful argument for making these spaces more permanent.

Why Arts Education Matters—Especially Here

“In a multicultural city like San Diego, the arts are a way to tell the truth, bridge differences, and imagine a more just world,” Daniel says. Through theater, students learn not just to perform, but to see themselves as changemakers—an idea supported by research from Americans for the Arts that shows arts education contributes to long-term civic engagement and academic success.

“These are lifelong tools,” Daniel adds. “They’re just as important as math or science.”

The Road Ahead

Looking to the future, Daniel and the board are focused on growing participation across the board—from artists to educators to community partners.

“Our long-term vision is to create a permanent home for a professional Theater for Young Audiences company right here in San Diego,” he says. “The city needs it. Bocón is ready to lead that vision.”

How You Can Join the Movement

Daniel is quick to remind us that community is at the center of everything Bocón does—and that support comes in many forms.

“We invite you to attend performances, ask questions, and engage with our work,” he says. “Be an advocate for the arts in your schools and neighborhoods. And yes—financial support matters. Your donations allow us to keep offering high-quality programming that’s accessible to all.”

A Note of Gratitude (and Humor)

To close, Daniel offers a heartfelt message to the entire Bocón community:

“To all of you—artists, volunteers, staff, families—thank you. You’re doing amazing work. Your dedication, creativity, and passion make Bocón what it is.

Volunteers: you’re the salt on our chips/totopos.

Staff: thank you for riding the waves with us and pushing us to do better.

Community: stay with us, dream with us, and help us build the next stage of Bocón.”

Ready to get involved?

Visit bocon.org to learn more about our programs, upcoming performances, and ways to support Bocón’s mission. Want to help build a permanent home for multicultural theater for young audiences? We’d love to hear from you.

Together, we’re building the next act.