Literally translated, the word “bocón” means “big mouth” in Spanish, but the local community arts organization of the same name chooses to use it a little differently. “While it traditionally carries a negative connotation, we chose it intentionally to reclaim and redefine what it means to have a big voice and loudmouth. At Bocón , being a ‘big mouth’ means having the courage to speak up, to tell our community’s stories before someone else does, and to ensure that those stories are heard loud and clear,” says Crystal Mercado Rosure, founder and artistic director of Bocón.
“This mission is the foundation of everything we do. Outside of school hours, we continue to create original work with our youth ensembles, we provide free global arts summer camps, and offer after-school arts enrichment programs.” The organization, which officially began in 2010 as a free youth theater program in National City for fourth- through sixth-graders, has grown into providing arts education workshops to more than 5,000 students in kindergarten through 12th grade in San Diego’s most underserved areas.
Mercado Rosure, who has degrees in children’s theater from San Diego State University and in theater for youth from Arizona State University, produces and develops plays by artists of color and those of marginalized genders. She’s taught in classroom spaces in San Diego County (including year-long cultural arts residencies at Balboa Elementary for the past nine years), Arizona, and Japan, and her goal is for San Diego to think of Bocón as “San Diego’s theater for youth, particularly in the southern communities” of the county, publishing and commissioning works that address social justice issues that include racism, youth empowerment, grief, and loss. Mercado Rosure, 41, lives in San Diego’s Jamacha/Lomita neighborhood with her husband, Jordan, and their son, and his son and daughter from a previous relationship.
She took some time to talk about her work with Bocón and her drive to provide theater arts and storytelling to kids in ways that allow them to see themselves and feel empowered to tell their own stories. Q: Why was Bocón something you wanted to start? A: I created Bocón because I saw a glaring need in San Diego for theater that not only serves the whole family, but also truly represents the rich diversity of our communities. Growing up, I had a deep love for storytelling, but like many local families, mine couldn’t afford the programs that were available.
The arts often felt like a luxury, something only accessible to those with the means to pay for classes, costumes, and production fees. I know firsthand what it’s like to yearn for a creative outlet and to feel that financial barriers are insurmountable. That experience stayed with me and, as I got older, it fueled a desire to make sure that other children didn’t have to miss out on the transformative power of the arts just because of their economic situation.
It wasn’t just about making theater accessible; it was about making it meaningful. I wanted to create a space where young people could see themselves reflected on stage, where their stories, cultures, and voices were not just included, but celebrated. Bocón was born out of this desire to ensure that all children, regardless of their background or financial situation, have the opportunity to explore the arts, to find their voice, and to share their stories with the world.
The convenience and sense of community it offers. I’m within walking distance of two parks, which are perfect for taking my toddler and dog to run around and play. On Tuesdays, one of the parks comes alive with a local group that plays classic R&B jams while they skate on the basketball court, creating a lively atmosphere that makes for a great soundtrack as the kids play—though my little one often wants to join in on the skating! These green spaces provide a daily escape where we can enjoy nature, unwind, and soak in the vibrant community energy.
Q: Can you talk a bit about your introduction to theater? A: I was a shy but creative child, naturally drawn to storytelling and performing, though I only felt comfortable sharing that side of myself within the safety of my home. My real introduction to theater came in high school when I joined a drama class out of curiosity (and because my older brother was in it). It was there that I discovered the power of theater to move people, tell stories, and teach empathy.
Although I quickly realized that my talents might not lie on the stage itself, my love for theater only grew stronger as I saw how it could connect people and convey profound truths. Q: You have a bachelor’s degree in children’s theater and a master’s in theater for youth. What is it about theater for young people that you were drawn to studying and pursuing professionally? A: I was drawn to theater for young people because, growing up, I often felt that children were expected to be seen but not heard, living in a world dictated by adults, with little agency, even though they experience the same complex emotions as adults, often for the first time.
Theater offers a way for children to feel seen and heard, serving as both a guide and a source of validation. What particularly captivates me is the sense of magic, wonder, and play that is central to theater for youth, something that often gets lost in adult theater. This magic helps children navigate their world and it also rekindles that sense of curiosity in adults, allowing them to rediscover the wonder within.
I hope our theater not only empowers children, but also brings joy to families who experience it together. Q: What kinds of changes have you witnessed in the young people you’ve worked with after they’ve been able to experience storytelling and personal narrative through your program? A: Through our educational programs, including in-school residencies, after-school ensembles, and summer camps, we’ve seen remarkable transformations in the young people we work with. Parents and teachers often share how their children have blossomed, becoming more confident and self-assured.
One of the greatest compliments we receive is when a parent tells us that their child has learned to accept and love themselves through our program. We’ve witnessed children who once had severe stage fright experience genuine joy on stage, finding a new sense of empowerment in expressing their stories. Many of our students return year after year, and we see significant growth in their confidence and artistic abilities, reflecting the lasting impact of our programs on their personal development Q: What is the best advice you’ve ever received? A: On a personal and artistic level, RuPaul is my guru—his wisdom has been invaluable, from loving yourself and embracing your drag persona as your superpower, to practical advice like paying your taxes.
However, on a purely professional level, one of the best pieces of advice I’ve received came from my close colleague Jenn Oliver, who taught me the importance of creating a smart budget and always including a percentage for the organization. Q: What is one thing people would be surprised to find out about you? A: An interesting fact is that my husband and I lived in Japan for three years, and my son was born there, thanks to the magic and science of IVF. The journey to becoming a parent was one of the most heartbreaking and rewarding experiences of my life.
Japan offered us an affordable path to parenthood that I’m incredibly grateful for, as I wouldn’t be a mom today without that experience. As an empowered woman who’s used to working hard to achieve my dreams, I was deeply humbled by our struggle to conceive naturally. This experience opened my heart to anyone going through similar challenges, and it has made me passionate about speaking openly on the topic so that others don’t feel so alone in their journey.
The gratitude I feel for being able to be a mom now is immense, and I wish conversations around fertility and IVF were more common, as it’s a path that so many silently walk. Q: Please describe your ideal San Diego weekend. A: My ideal San Diego weekend is a perfect blend of family fun and relaxation, especially when I have visitors.
We can take the opportunity to play tourists and enjoy a bit of a staycation—with kids in tow, the San Diego Zoo and the beach are absolute musts, particularly in the summer. Another favorite spot is The New Children’s Museum, which is not only fun but also sparks creativity in kids. The park right across the street from the museum is perfect for a quick play session afterward.
.
