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Ramona Bowl Amphitheatre
January 19, 2025

"Ramona" Announces 2025 Cast and Makes History with First Native American Director

"Ramona" Announces 2025 Cast and Makes History with First Native American Director

Hemet, CA (January 19, 2025): At the Ramona President's Gala on January 18th, 2025, the Ramona Bowl Amphitheatre was thrilled to unveil the talented cast for the 102nd season of "Ramona" and celebrate a historic milestone. For the first time ever, California's official outdoor play and the longest running outdoor play in the nation will be led by a Native American director, Duane Minard.


Introducing the 2025 Cast

A new generation of actors will bring the story of "Ramona" to life:

  • Ramona: Shirley Casillas
  • Alessandro: Eli Santana
  • Señora Moreno: Kathi Anderson
  • Don Felipe: Jeffrey Noriega
  • Juan Canito: Kristofer James
  • Marda: Joey Mercado
  • Margarita:  Victoria Shockey
  • Dolores: Kasiah Cherland
  • Salvedierra: Frank Siebke
  • Luigo: Drake Rogers
  • Gaspara: Derk Rodgers
  • Ysidro: Ricky Luna
  • Aunt Ri: Laura Cherland
  • Jefferson: Bret Cherland
  • Joe: Ben Cherland
  • Story Teller: Maddine Jiminez
  • Anciea Mara: Anita Bielma
  • Farrar: Dan Ferguson


A New Era for "Ramona"

Duane Minard, a seasoned actor, playwright, and choreographer of Paiute/Yurok descent, takes the helm as Artistic Director. Minard's deep connection to Native American culture and his extensive experience with "Ramona" as both a performer and Assistant Director promise an authentic and compelling vision for this landmark season.


Experience the Epic Tale

"Ramona" is a sweeping historical romance set in Southern California during the 1850s. The play tells the story of Ramona, a young woman of mixed Native American and Spanish heritage, and Alessandro, a Native American man. Their love story unfolds against a backdrop of cultural clash and injustice, offering a powerful exploration of identity, love, and resilience. 


Don't miss this historic season of "Ramona," with its groundbreaking new director and a talented cast bringing new life to this timeless story.

Performance Dates:

  • April 26th and 27th, 2025 
  • May 3rd and 4th, 2025
  • May 10th and 11th, 2025 

For tickets and information:


Contact:

Joe Grindstaff President, Board of Directors ramona@ramonabowl.com (951) 658-3111






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By Ramona Bowl Amphitheatre January 18, 2025
Saturday, January 25 10:00 am – 2:00 pm Courtyard Ramona Bowl Amphitheatre Are you ready to be a part of something big? The Ramona Bowl Amphitheatre is looking for volunteers to help with the upcoming production of Ramona! We are looking for people of all ages and backgrounds to fill a variety of roles, including: Rock Indians/Village Children Spanish Dancers Atmosphere Children of the Rancho Costumes/Makeup Production/Backstage No experience is necessary, just a willingness to learn and have fun. Volunteer Sign-Up Day will be held on Saturday, January 25th from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm at the Ramona Bowl Amphitheatre Courtyard. Come meet the Artistic Director, Duane Minard, and learn more about how you can get involved. Contact: 951-658-3111 or 951-232-5267 Website: https://www.ramonabowl.com/ We hope to see you there! About Ramona: Ramona is a play based on the novel by Helen Hunt Jackson. It tells the story of Ramona, a young woman of Native American and Spanish descent, who falls in love with Alessandro, a Native American man. The play is set in Southern California in the 1800s and is a powerful tale of love, loss, and injustice. The Ramona Bowl Amphitheatre is a unique outdoor theatre located in Hemet, California. It is the home of the annual Ramona Pageant, which has been performed every year since 1923. We hope you'll join us for this exciting event!
Photo of Duane Minard
By Ramona Amphitheatre December 18, 2024
The Ramona Bowl Amphitheatre announces the 102nd season of "Ramona" with Duane Minard as the first Native American Artistic Director. Experience the epic tale under the stars, April 26th - May 11th, 2025.
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