Ramón A. Esquivel

Ramón A. Esquivel is an Assistant Professor of Theatre and Playwriting at California Polytechnic State University. He specializes in playwriting, dramaturgy, Latinx theatre, and theatre for young audiences (TYA). His work emphasizes new play development, arts integration in education, and cultural narratives. Esquivel has produced plays across North America, including The Hero Twins: Blood Race and Above Between Below, and his awards include the Aurand Harris Memorial Playwriting Award.

Education:

• MFA Creative Writing, University of British Columbia
• MA Educational Theatre, New York University
• BA History, Yale University

Research Interests: Esquivel’s research explores the intersection of Latinx identity and theatrical storytelling, particularly in TYA. He focuses on community engagement, educational theatre methodologies, and the role of drama in fostering cultural dialogue. His work often integrates interdisciplinary approaches, blending history, literature, and performance to create socially relevant pieces.

Awards & Grants:

• Recipient of ReImagine Grant (TYA/USA)
• Invited Playwright at Seven Devils Playwrights Conference
• Cal Poly RSCA Grant (2023-2024)

Advocacy & Pedagogy: Before academia, Esquivel taught in secondary schools across Washington DC, NYC, and Canada. He advocates for student-generated theatre through festivals at UBC, CWU, and now Cal Poly. His collaborations include productions with Seattle Children’s Theatre and Kaiser Permanente’s Educational Theatre Program.

Professional Affiliations: Member of Dramatists Guild, Latinx Theatre Commons, and New Play Exchange. Active in theatre education initiatives through AATE and TYA networks.