Bilingual Foundation of the Arts
Welcome to the Bilingual Foundation of the Arts, where a rich tapestry of cultural heritage and artistic expression comes to life. For over five decades, we have been a beacon of creativity, diversity, and empowerment in the heart of Los Angeles. Founded by three extraordinary women, Carmen Zapata, Margarita Galban, and Estela Scarlata, our mission has been to provide a platform for Hispanic culture, bridging gaps, and fostering understanding through the power of bilingual theater.
With a Legacy of over 265 productions and a commitment to nurturing the talents of Latino artists, we continue to shine as a fundamental force in the world of bilingual theater, contributing to the cultural enrichment of the American stage. Join us as we embark on a new chapter, striving to establish a permanent artistic home and carry forward the vision of our founders for generations to come. This is our story, and we invite you to be a part of it.
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 and Margarita Galban BFA Theater as a permanent home for world-class Hispanic theater in Los Angeles. We aim to be the leading production company for the Hispanic community—financially sustainable, artistically excellent, and deeply rooted in cultural pride. Through strategic partnerships with universities and community organizations, we will preserve our founders' legacy and inspire future generations to celebrate and elevate Hispanic storytelling.
BFA 1973 - 2025
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.
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