On the Eve of Abolition is an original, bilingual (Spanish-English), multimedia and mask/puppet theater performance by Papel Machete. The story is set in 2047 on the last day of the last prison in transnational liberated lands of southern North America. A movement of abolitionists have created the conditions to end the prison industrial complex. There are abolition camps, formerly incarcerated people, families, and organizers outside, and from within, prisoners organized in this final moment to end all prisons.

We use puppets, masks, miniature sets, stop-motion, shadow puppets, and video projection to create an immersive experience for the audience. The play is a radical imaginary sci-fi story based on current conditions in the US and Puerto Rico. The project is developed and performed by artists and collaborators of Papel Machete.

ontheeveofabolition.com

About Papel Machete

Papel Machete is a radical theater and puppetry collective that produces and performs original work throughout Puerto Rico and the U.S. The collective started on May 1, 2006, during the government shutdown, in response to the economic and political crisis generated by the status of Puerto Rico as a colony of the U.S. Since then, we have established a body of work inspired by a commonly shared aesthetic and values. Using papier mâché as our main medium, Papel Machete explores a wide range of artforms and styles, including toy theater, cantastorias, shadow theater, table-top puppetry, masks, performing objects, and giant puppets. Papel Machete has brought theater to new audiences and venues to denounce exploitation, build solidarity, and agitate for action in the struggles of frontline communities.

 papelmachete.com

Support

In 2022, we presented a work-in-progress of the play with Cara Mía Theater in Dallas, TX. In early 2023, we filmed special scenes in Bulbancha (New Orleans) and in winter of the same year, premiered On the Eve of Abolition to sold out shows in Santurce, Puerto Rico. In fall 2024, we are presenting our U.S. premiere in Boston, MA. 

We have received incredible support to create and develop this project to where it is today. 

We are raising funds to support our U.S. tour of On the Eve of Abolition in 2025. Funds raised will support artist fees, support for our incarcerated collaborators, materials and equipment, travel costs, food and accomodations while on the road. 

Thank you to all who've been a part of making this project happen!