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GUESTS: Ingrid Marquez, Director, Fanny Garcia, Writer, Jackie Bustamante, Actress

Nationwide, people of color in the United States now account for the majority of new AIDS cases and deaths from the disease. Within the Latino community, in particular, the rate of infection is increasingly disproportionate. Accounting for 14% of the U.S. population, Latinos represent 18% of new AIDS cases nationwide. In California, Governor Schwarzenegger has plans to cut $11 million dollars for HIV/AIDS programs from the state’s budget which would heavily impact minority communities. Ahead of planned AIDS fundraising walks across the country this weekend, the award winning Breath of Fire Latina Theater Ensemble is presenting a new play about Latinas dealing with the disease. “Portrait of Ten Women and the Ribbon of Hope that Binds Them,” explores the experiences of ten women learning to live with HIV/AIDS through poignant monologues. Written by Fanny Garcia and directed by Ingrid Marquez, “Portrait of Ten Women,” showcases afflicted Latina women struggling with the emotions of sadness, shame, determination and hope.

Portraits of ten women opens this Friday May 9th and runs through Saturday June 7th at 310 W 5th street in Santa Ana (corner of 5th and Broadway above El Curtido Restaurant). For reservations call 714-540-1157 or email boftc.reservations@gmail.com. Website: www.myspace.com/boft.