A Cultural Legacy Built on Language & Access
In the 1960s, Los Angeles became a powerful center of social change. Latino communities organized for dignity, opportunity, and recognition, and artists played a vital role in giving voice to those struggles. Theatre became a place where culture, language, and identity could be seen and heard.
In 1973, Carmen Zapata, Margarita Galbán, and Estela Scarlata founded the Bilingual Foundation of the Arts (BFA) with a bold vision: to create a space where Latino stories and bilingual theatre could thrive. What began as a dream among three visionary artists grew into one of the longest-running bilingual theatre organizations in the United States.
Today, that vision continues with the dream of a permanent home—The Carmen Zapata Theater—a space where future generations of artists and audiences can gather, celebrate culture, and keep the power of theatre alive in Los Angeles.
OUR MISSION
Bilingual Foundation of the Arts (BFA) is dedicated to preserving and celebrating Hispanic culture through high-quality bilingual theater. Our mission is rooted in accessibility and inclusion: over 70% of our audiences are from low- to moderate-income (LMI) communities, including K–12 students, college youth, families, and seniors. Through culturally enriching performances, free and discounted admissions, educational workshops, and job opportunities in the arts, we remove financial and social barriers to participation. Our productions exemplify our commitment—offering free access to students, parents, and seniors, ensuring that art is not a luxury, but a shared community right.
In the footsteps of visionaries, BFA stands as a testament to the enduring power of art, culture, and the human spirit.
OUR VISION
BFA: Where a legacy of culture and creativity continues to illuminate hearts and minds, for the love of the arts knows no bounds.
Our vision is to establish the Carmen Zapata Theater as the permanent home for world-class Hispanic theater in Los Angeles—where stories rooted in heritage, identity, and resilience take center stage. As the leading Hispanic production company, we are committed to financial sustainability, artistic excellence, and cultural pride. By building powerful partnerships across K–12 schools, universities, nonprofits, business sector, and public institutions, we will preserve the legacy of our founders and ignite a lifelong appreciation for Hispanic storytelling in new generations. Together, we will ensure that our culture is not just remembered—but celebrated, elevated, and seen.
The women behind BFA from 1973 to 2023
The founders of the Bilingual Foundation of the Arts, Carmen Zapata, Margarita Galban, and Estela Scarlata, were trailblazing visionaries who recognized the transformative potential of bilingual theater. With unwavering determination and boundless passion, they established BFA in 1973, setting in motion a cultural movement that continues to shine today. Carmen Zapata, a Broadway veteran, brought her star power and advocacy for Latino artists, while Margarita Galban and Estela Scarlata, equally formidable, added their talents and commitment to create a unique artistic haven. Together, these three extraordinary women have left an indelible mark on the world of theater, enriching lives and fostering understanding through the powerful medium of bilingual performance. Their legacy lives on, inspiring new generations to embrace the beauty and diversity of Hispanic culture.
More than 50 years of history
Discover the incredible legacy of the Bilingual Foundation of the Arts in our documentary. This film captures the heart and soul of our mission to bring bilingual theater to Los Angeles, enriching the Latino community with classic plays in their own language. More than just performances, it's about preserving our culture, leaving a lasting legacy, and inspiring both Latino and non-Latino audiences with the vibrant contributions of our heritage. Watch the documentary and be part of this cultural journey.
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