Bandido!

by Luis Valdez

Drama ~ Anthology / Bandido! is an exploration and expurgation of old clichés about the early California bandits. Valdez’s intent is to alter history by demonstrating his version of the exploits of one Tiburcio Vásquez, the last man to be publicly hanged in California. The play is therefore didactic like an acto or a docu-drama but goes beyond those forms to become a “melodrama within a play.” The playwright creates a construct in which audience sees Vásquez through different eyes. Vásquez is sympathetic when observed through the playwright’s eyes and a stereotype when seen through history’s distorted characterization.

Paperback

Published January 1, 1992

About the author

Luis Valdez is an American playwright, writer and film director.

He is regarded as the father of Chicano theater in the United States.