14

14 was inspired by the true-life event in May 2001 in which a smuggler abandoned 30 Mexicans crossing the desert near Yuma, Ariz., resulting in 14 deaths due to dehydration.

While José Casas’ 14 is named for the fourteen immigrants who died crossing the US-Mexico border in May 2001, the play does not show their journey or deaths onstage. Instead, this Laramie Project-style piece tells the story of the living in honor of those who can no longer tell their stories.

14 chronicles a series of interviews inspired by real life conversations with people living on and near the border in Arizona. From the white business owner whose store is vandalized as his son is accused of beating two Mexican boys, to the Latino state senator who is accused of being anti-Latino while grappling with the belief that his success means others can be successful, too, to the Reverend placing water stations in the treacherous desert in an effort to save lives despite only ever seeing the ones his efforts could not help.

14
by José Casas
Directed by Lauren Patton