Some of John Leguizamo’s greatest work has been on the stage. Earlier this year he debuted his latest stageshow, Latin History for Morons, which performed to sold-out houses at New York’s Public Theater and inspired a documentary looking at its creation. Dazzling audiences and critics, the show secured a Tony nomination this year for Best Play on Broadway, this on top of the special award Leguizamo is receiving for his work furthering Latino stories. But if you don’t live in New York and want to see Latin History for Morons, Netflix has you covered as it’s been announced the streaming service will film the show during its upcoming performance at the New Jersey Performing Arts Center.
The Colombian-American actor and creator made his Broadway debut in 1991 with Mambo Mouth and since then he’s been the driving force behind two Tony Award-nominated features, 1998’s Freak and 2001’s Sexaholix…A Love Story. Latin History for Morons came about after Leguizamo’s child asked him for help regarding a project about Latino heroes. The simple research project turned into a Broadway show wherein Leguizamo looks at 3,000 years of Latino history, charting everything from the conquistadors to Menudo, all with an air towards showing how whitewashed history truly is.
Leguizamo’s plays, many of which have been available on DVD or through HBO, are all vibrant slices of life, charting Leguizamo’s own history as well as relatable facets of life from adolescence to romance. Latin History for Morons has drawn raves from those who have seen it and it’s amazing to know mass audiences will receive the rare opportunity to stream a Tony Award-nominated series without having to get a plane ticket. The filming takes place June 28-30 so depending on how the show does at the Tonys expect to see this released quickly.
Tickets for the live taping go on sale June 1 via NJPAC’s website.