Latinos Organizing for Understanding and Development (LOUD) has announced that it will present the Wisconsin premiere of the award-winning documentary The Ugly Little Monkeys in September at The Marquee Cinema of Wisconsin Union South on Thursday, Sept. 10, 6-8:30 p.m.
The Ugly Little Monkeys tells the remarkable true story of Los Changuitos Feos de Tucson, the first youth mariachi ensemble in the United States. Founded in 1964 by Father Charles Rourke, the group overcame discrimination, limited opportunities, and economic hardship to become internationally recognized cultural ambassadors. Their groundbreaking work inspired generations of young musicians, sparked the youth mariachi movement throughout the United States, and inspired the internationally renowned Tucson International Mariachi Conference, one of the nation’s premier celebrations of mariachi music and Mexican culture.
“Bringing this remarkable documentary to Wisconsin, along with its filmmakers, is an opportunity to inspire local filmmakers, celebrate the rich tradition of mariachi music, and encourage greater investment in Latino storytelling and the arts,” said Oscar Mireles, founder and executive director of LOUD, in a statement. “As LOUD continues to expand access to Latino arts throughout Wisconsin, we are honored to present this inspiring film and welcome David Valdez and Enrique Castillo to Madison.”
Following the screening, audiences will have the rare opportunity to participate in a conversation and Q&A with the film’s co-directors, David E. Valdez, an Emmy Award-winning cinematographer and filmmaker with more than 30 years of experience in television and film production, and Enrique Castillo, the acclaimed actor known for his memorable roles in Blood In Blood Out, Weeds, NYPD Blue, and numerous other film and television productions.
More than a documentary about music, The Ugly Little Monkeys is a story of perseverance, mentorship, community, and the transformative power of the arts.
“I want audiences to discover the incredible true story behind America’s first youth mariachi and the secrets that haunted them for decades,” said Valdez.
For tickets, click here.
