
Since its launch on January 25, DEMAND has captivated audiences at the Woolly Mammoth Theatre in Washington, DC, offering a moving and immersive experience. Curated by the creative agency Espacio in collaboration with Change the Ref (CTR), this exhibition blends art, education, and activism to address the urgent issue of gun violence in the United States. Simultaneously, the premiere of GUAC, a play written and performed by Manuel Oliver, brings an intimate and emotional dimension to the conversation. Through this one-man show, Oliver narrates a powerful story of love, loss, and activism, illustrating how resilience can transform tragedy into purpose.
CTR, a nonprofit founded by Manuel and Patricia Oliver after the tragic loss of their son, Joaquin "Guac" Oliver, in the 2018 Parkland shooting, uses creativity to challenge and confront the ongoing crisis of gun violence. DEMAND is a showcase of creative campaigns and activations by some of the world’s leading agencies created over the last 7 years. This powerful exhibition includes interactive works such as a video game developed by Webcore Games, which immerses players in the consequences of gun violence, as well as a motorcycle once built by Manuel and Joaquin, now transformed into a symbol of resistance and remembrance.
The impact of this initiative is strengthened through strategic partnerships, particularly with Espacio, a Hispanic creative agency based in Washington, DC. Winston Peraza, partner and chief creative officer at Espacio, highlights the core message: "We need each person to become an amplifier of these ideas so that everyone understands that what we are demanding is not impossible, it is logical. Through creativity, art, theater, and activism, we show that change is possible."
The exhibition is designed to engage the public on a deep emotional level, transforming grief and outrage into collective action. DEMAND is open to the public for free until February 16, inviting visitors to experience its thought-provoking installations. Along with the exhibition, GUAC presents a deeply personal and powerful theatrical experience. Directed by Michael Cotey and presented in collaboration with The Woolly Mammoth Theatre, GUAC runs through February 16, with tickets starting at $30.
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