Film explores gender, cultural obstacles facing all-female mariachi

0 Comments | Oakland Tribune, Jun 18, 2009 | by JM Brown

Piedmont's Appreciating Diversity Film Series will tackle the intergenerational topic of gender expectations with a free presentation of "Companeras," a documentary that chronicles the cultural hurdles overcome by America's first all-female mariachi band.

Founded 15 years ago, the Mariachi Reyna de Los Angeles created a stir when the members forayed into an art form that had traditionally been reserved for men. On top of societal pressure to fit into historic gender roles, the women also battled their own sense of guilt about making enough time for their families.

Julie Chang, a local teacher who serves on the film selection committee, said the heart-rending story raises "an old question but brought up in a fresh way -- women choosing between work and family. Whenever they performed at night, they felt like they were not being a good mother."

The film will begin at 7 p.m. Wednesday at Beach Elementary School Auditorium, 100 Lake St., with a community discussion afterward until 9 p.m. There will be a reception at 6:30 p.m. Burritos will be available for $2 for children or $5 for adults.

"Companeras" tells the story of the groundbreaking 12-member group through the eyes of 19-year-old Angelica, who moved to Los Angeles to pursue her dream of joining the band. The 2006 film also explores the story of the band's leader and its only non-Latina member, Cindy, who has since gone on to start her own mariachi school.

Filmmakers Elizabeth Massie and Matthew Buzzell provide insight into the Mexican musical tradition of mariachi while walking viewers through how the women defied gender and cultural boundaries to fulfill their dreams.

"The music is wonderful and it is a chance for us to feel a connection with these young women as they are coming to their own in a field formerly dominated by men is quite moving," said film committee member Maude Pervere. "And I think it gives all young people the sense of what's possible."

The film made Chang realize how boys and girls are expected to play certain kinds of instruments based on their sex. Girls are often encouraged to play the violin, flute or piano, while boys are urged more toward playing drums, horns and guitar.

"This is not just in Hispanic or Latino cultures," Chang said. "I'm Chinese, and if you're a Chinese girl, you are expected to play violin or piano. Why didn't I play trombone?"

The film is sponsored by The Appreciating Diversity Committee, DiversityWorks and the Piedmont League of Women Voters.IF YOU GO

WHAT: Appreciating Diversity Film Series presentation of "Compa eras."

WHEN: Wednesday, June 24; 6:30 p.m. reception; 7-9 p.m. film and discussion.

WHERE: Beach Elementary School Auditorium, 100 Lake St., Piedmont.

COST: Free.

FOR MORE INFORMATION: www.diversityfilmseries.org.