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

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