Tony Plana Biography

Fast Facts

• Developed Beyond Borders: Literacy through Performing Arts, an educational program aimed towards helping academically at-risk and bi-lingual students
• Graduated magna cum laude from Loyola Marymount University and trained in acting at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art in London
• Fled Cuba with his family as a child and eventually settled in Culver City, Calif
• Known primarily as an actor, Plana made his directorial debut with the 2000 film "The Princess & the Barrio Boy․"
• Played Rudy in the film adaptation of the play "Zoot Suit" after originating the role on the L․A․ stage and then following the show to Broadway
• Co-founded the East L․A․ Classic Theatre, which is mainly comprised of Hispanic American theatre professionals
• Has taught acting at California State University, Dominguez Hills and Rio Hondo College in California