NATION-STATE: A Live Experiment
Description
Nation-State: A Live Experiment
Upon arrival, every audience member receives a passport. They are told not to lose it. Without it, they cannot enter the Smallest Country in the World.
Created and directed by Gabriel de la Cruz Soler through a process of collective creation, Nation-State transforms Dupont Underground's historic tunnels into the entrance of a self-declared micronation — one that exists somewhere between performance and reality. Part immersive theater, part civic ritual, part border crossing.
Inside, audiences meet Officer Salinas, Director of N.I.C.E. (Non-Discriminatory, Inclusive Customs Enforcement), who, through absurd games, will evaluate every applicant's eligibility for citizenship.
Every night is different. Victor Salinas — co-founder of La Pluma Theatre — is joined by a guest artist who has never seen the script, performing live for the very first time. No rehearsal. No safety net. Together, they build the Smallest Country in the World in real time, in front of you.
This has not been rehearsed. This is a live experiment. We have never done this before.
Nation-State is Washington, D.C.'s first testimonial theatre production — a form rooted in lived experience, where performers speak in the first person and audiences are asked not simply to observe, but to become participants in the story.
September 2–13, 2026
Dupont Underground
Your passport is waiting.
Recommended for audiences ages 16+.
Running time: Approximately 60 minutes.
Please note that this is a promenade-style performance. Audience members will walk through the tunnels and actively participate throughout the experience. Comfortable footwear is recommended.
Concept & Direction: Gabriel de la Cruz Soler
Featuring Victor Salinas and a guest artist each night
Guest Artists:
September 2, 7:30pm: Kit Krull
September 3, 7:30pm: Gabriel Alejandro
September 4, 8:30pm: Hillary Jones
September 5, 7:30pm: Raghad Makhlouf
September 6, 5:30pm: Catherine Nuñez
September 7, 7:30pm: Luz Nicolas
September 9, 7:30pm: Mari con Carne
September 10, 7:30pm: Erick Acuña
September 11, 7:30pm: Fabiolla da Silva
September 12, 2:00pm: Clara Navarro
September 13, 5:30pm: Petrona Xemi Tapepechul
Tickets for good, not greed Humanitix dedicates 100% of profits from booking fees to charity
