With the goal of reflecting the diversity of Bushwick, where 61 percent  of its residents identify as Hispanic/Latinx, region(es): SUD will showcase Latinx contemporary performing arts. Region(es) artistic director Juan Pablo Siles Mendoza created the series as a way for individuals who identify as Latinx to connect with the broader Latinx community.

The title of the series can be interpreted multiple ways. By placing parentheses around “es,” region(es) can be read in English and in Spanish. All the letters are lowercase to show that the series is starting out small with the intention of growing larger. “[The title] stems out of this idea of regions in Latin America and wanting to explore them bit by bit,” says Siles Mendoza, who is from La Paz, Bolivia.  

For its first installment, region(es) will feature artists ranging in age from 30 to 70, who claim roots in South America. Mostly focusing on the complex dynamic between the U.S. and Latin America, the contemporary performances will include theater, music, film, and dance. The series will be held in parks and bars throughout Bushwick, with some events offering participation from the community, like dance parties.