We sat down to chat with playwright Alexis Scheer about all things Laughs in Spanish.

Seattle Rep: Both you and [Seattle Rep's Artistic Director and Laughs in Spanish] director Dámaso Rodríguez have roots in Miami. What makes that city a prime place to set this story? Where did your initial inspiration for this play begin? 

Alexis Scheer: I was really inspired by the art-ification of the Wynwood neighborhood in Miami. Formerly the garment district, where my family had deep roots, Wynwood turned into a hotspot for art, food, and nightlife seemingly overnight. This play was a way for me to imagine who would populate the space that was once my parents’ button company or grandparents’ dress shop, and it’s a love letter to the city and community of artists who raised me.

And while the mother character in the play is nothing like my own mother, I do have to shout her out as a source of inspiration. My mom is a Colombian immigrant who I watched code switch between her personal and professional life every day, and is the kind of woman who models for me what it looks like to be successful both with work and family.

^{The painted backdrop for the set of Laughs in Spanish (designed by Scenic Designer Sara C Walsh) is inspired by the beautiful murals and vibrant colors of the Wynwood neighborhood of Miami. Photo by Sayed Alamy.}

SR: You have described Laughs in Spanish as "a play about Latinas with agency." Could you expand on what that means to you?

AS: This is a story centered on an ambitious mother and daughter who both start the play from places of professional success. I was really interested in writing something, particularly about Latinas, where the narrative wasn’t about the struggle to become successful but rather what it costs to be successful. 

SR: Laughs in Spanish is being staged all across the country this year. Why do you think it is particularly connecting with audiences right now?

AS: I think audiences need joy. But not simply for escapism. I personally believe joy is the most sustainable resource we have when it comes to resistance. And in these terribly divisive times, especially with so much hateful rhetoric being spewed towards immigrants, I’m very proud to be all over the country telling a story that puts the heart and humor of the Latiné community in the spotlight.

^{Actors Beth Pollack, Diana Garle, and Diana Burbano in rehearsal for Laughs in Spanish (2025). Photo by Sayed Alamy.}

SR: What do you hope people take away from this show?

AS: Hopefully a curiosity to engage with more Latiné culture—go dancing, go eat (we have GREAT food)! And, as always, I hope you leave with a desire to keep seeing and supporting new plays! Also, if you like what you see and want to keep up with the work I’m doing, you can follow me on Instagram @scheer_madness.

See Alexis Scheer's Laughs in Spanish on stage at Seattle Rep from April 17 - May 11, 2025.

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