A new version of the theater production Adobe Punk is coming to East L.A.’s Margo Albert Theatre from March 28 to April 13, 2025. Presented by About…Productions, this show combines live music, theater, and an immersive set design to transport audiences to early 1980s Bell Gardens. Written and directed by mother-son duo Theresa Chavez and Gabriel Garza, the play follows three young musicians squatting in one of L.A.’s oldest adobe homes as they rehearse for their first show. Their journey explores the struggles and excitement of making music while questioning what punk really means.
The cast includes actor-musicians Margarita Brighton, Isaac Cruz, and Sara Bunge, who bring the fictional band to life. Cruz describes the experience as "one of the most artistically satisfying projects of my life," while Bunge says she is excited to explore how music connects people and sparks change. The show features original songs written by Nina Diaz (music) and Chavez (lyrics), along with a dynamic soundscape by Sage Lewis. The production aims to capture the raw energy of punk, with actors performing live as their characters develop songs in real-time.
Adding to the experience is Punk in Place: Concerts and Casuals Shot by Theresa Kereakes, a photo exhibit displayed in the theater lobby. Curated by Garza, the exhibit showcases Kereakes’ photography from the L.A. punk scene, giving audiences a deeper look into the world that inspired Adobe Punk. A special event on March 30 will include a Q&A with Kereakes, led by historian Dr. Jorge Leal.
Adobe Punk stands out by blending music, storytelling, and history into a unique performance. Unlike traditional plays, this production evolves each night, mirroring the unpredictable nature of punk itself. The combination of live music and historical context makes this an exciting show for both theater and punk fans. For those who appreciate punk’s DIY ethos and its deep roots in L.A., Adobe Punk offers a fresh perspective on a rebellious and creative era.
