A night of the dead was brought to life on Friday as performers from Teatro Los Hijos Del Campo (The Sons of the Field) delivered an emotional performance in memory of the Mexican celebration, Day of the Dead at the California State University, Stanislaus Event Center.

The skit was based on Chicano playwright Luis Valdez’s anti-war play, “Soldado Razo,” that recounts the story of a young Latino’s last night with his family and lover before going to the Vietnam War. The soldier dies in battle, leaving his family and loved ones behind.

“This play sends a great message to its audience,” said Teatro LHDC Director Carolina Alfaro.  “It focuses on the soldier’s perspective before and during the Vietnam War.  It also shows how it affects all his family and loved ones.”

The 40-minute skit left audiences laughing and crying from beginning to end.  After the performance, students enjoyed refreshments provided by the members of LHDC.   An altar for the Day of the Dead was displayed commemorating deceased loved ones.

“Our club is known for providing comical skits that leave our audiences at the edge of their seats,” said Alfaro.  “At times we like to change it up and perform plays that leave an important message.”

Teatro LHDC was born in the labor camps of Planada in 1992.  Members of Teatro LHDC promote cultural, social and political awareness by providing comedy Chicano skits. The group also fundraises each semester and awards scholarships to new and continuing CSU Stanislaus students.