Welcome to part 2 of BTSCelebs’ interview with the actors from “The River Bride”! It’s time to meet Jonathan Nieves.

BTSCelebs: Who is Jonathan Nieves?

Jonathan Nieves: I would describe myself as charismatic, passionate, jokester and hard worker.

How did you get your start in acting?

When the bug bit me, I was maybe 10 years old in my church’s Christmas production. I played Gabriel the Angel who tells Mary that Baby Jesus is in her belly. I just remember wanting everyone to laugh and when they did, it felt amazing! 

Why did you choose to be a part of “The River Bride”?

I chose to be a part of ‘The River Bride’ because the story is so rich! It’s got love, magic, heartbreak and ambition. It’s just a really great story that I’m proud to be a part of. 

What similarities do you share with your character Duarte? How do you differ?

We definitely differ in our way of expression. Duarte is less familiar with expressing his emotions, has a tougher exterior, and it takes a lot to earn his trust. I tend to be more open, trusting, and way more welcoming than Duarte. However, we have a lot in common in terms of how we both are heavily guided by our family, tradition, and morals. Especially when choosing those characteristics over love. But you’ll have to watch the show to find out how Duarte deals with that. 

You are the co-founder of Visión Latino Theatre Company. Very impressive! Tell us more about you organization.

Visión Latino Theatre Company’s visión is to  break down racial boundaries and to open the minds of audiences to latino struggles and perseverance through theatre. I’m very excited to have started this company with Xavier and Yajaira Custodio and bring even more Latinex theatre to the Chicago Community. 

Are there any projects we should anticipate from Visión Latino Theatre Company in the near future? Any upcoming projects for the 2017-2018 season?

Yes, we will be having a fundraiser and a reading coming up this fall along with the announcement of our 2017/18 season. People can sign up for more info at www.visionlatino.com 

Catch Jonathan Nieves’s performance in “The River Bride” at the Halycon Theatre in Chicago from May 11th thru June 18th, 2017.

*A Special Thanks to The Silverman Group for the Interview and Image*