EPISODE 1: Coffin Scratch! Where Am I?

THE CAST AND CREW

RIO DIAZ - MARITA DE LA TORRE

CLERK/DAVID - PETER MENDOZA

YOUNG RIO - ALOPE MEHRA

YOUNG JAVI - NICO WALTER-BURCH

SOUND EDITING - MARTIN WALTER

SOUND STUDIO - MAY AND ATIN MEHRA

How does one create a scripted podcast with no money or a budget? Well, I have these talented and gracious people to thank.

I had nearly given up on the idea of creating this podcast because it didn't seem feasible. Then my lovely boyfriend, film editor turned sound editor on this project, pushed me to record myself. I did and even though I was horrible at voice over work, the sample version he created was magic. He had added sound effects and music to my words. When I listened to it, I knew it would be possible, but who would play Rio?

I knew Marita De La Torre from my hometown of Brownsville, Texas. We both are south of the border town chicas and both are lovers of good food and wine. Marita has been involved in the Latino/ Highland Park film community for a very long time (see her bio above) and she has an extensive background in acting. But would she want to take on this project? After a few glasses of wine one night, I got brave and asked her if she would be interested in playing Rio. I am grateful she did, she has made Rio come to life or in this case undeath.

Friends, Atin and May were premiering their awarded documentary, Being Michelle. (Please look into it. It is a powerful documentary film about a deaf woman with autism who survived incarceration.) At the premiere, in the midst of chaos, I spoke about my podcast and they kindly offered their small studio in the back of their home to record. So grateful!

Then, I had been looking for young actors to play young Rio and Javi. Luckily Atin and Martin had kids that had taken acting classes. We recorded them and it worked! They were great and I was surprised what little pros they were. Much thanks!

I had most of Episode 1 edited, but needed one last voice — The Clerk/David. Enter Peter Mendoza, with a background as a principal cast member on HBO's second season of Perry Mason — I got lucky to direct him.

With the help and support of this crew, talented in their own unique crafts and projects, I am happy to introduce the first episode. A very special thanks to the cast! besos!

- OCHOIE