By Juan P. Voorduin
Your Street, Our Stage, directed by Johnny Alvarez, is a powerful and inspiring documentary short that focuses on Tania Coca Ardaya, a former street child in Cochabamba, Bolivia, who transformed her life through circus performance and the support of Performing Life (Fundación EnseñARTE).
With an eye for detail and a naturalistic viewpoint, Alvarez immerses viewers in Cochabamba’s street performance culture and the vibrant community nurtured by John Connell’s Performing Life—an organization dedicated to equipping under-resourced youth with artistic and professional skills.
While the film centers on Tania’s personal journey—from performer to instructor and now law student—it also reflects the ripple effect of her mentorship. Many others have followed her lead, building futures rooted in confidence, creativity, and hope.
The film is produced by Max Spivak, with Fiona Campbell as cinematographer and Abby Buchmeyer as editor. Together, this team crafts a heartfelt and educational portrait of resilience, empowerment, and the life-changing power of art.
⭐ Overall Rating: 5 out of 5 stars
Juan P. Voorduin is a screenwriter and film editor who recently graduated from DePaul University with a BFA in Film and Television Production. Driven by his love for film, television, and comic books, Juan is passionate about crafting immersive and engaging stories across a wide variety of media.
