Man with Down syndrome earns a role on Viva! El Paso
An El Paso man isn’t letting his disability stop him from accomplishing his dreams; and now he’s taking on a new challenge in this year’s production of Viva El Paso.
Andres Hernandez is a 20-year-old with down syndrome. When he’s dancing, all eyes are on him.
“It’s a way of expressing whatever he cannot say with words, he can express with dancing,” his mother, Mariesela Hernandez, said.
Andres has many talents. He’s traveled the world, winning gold medals in the Down Syndrome International World Championship.
“His ability was found whenever we placed him in water,” Hernandez said.
Andres also teaches Zumba classes. While on stage, you’d never know the challenges he faces.
But now, Andres is taking on a new role in this year’s production of Viva El Paso. This year’s theme focuses on the history of the Borderland.
When asked why he decided to audition, Andres said because it’s fun to dance. He also loves the music and singing.
In fact, auditioning for the show was a rigorous process.
“We do turn away some people, some people don’t make the cut because it is competitive auditions,” Artistic Director Keith Townsend said.
But Andres made the cut.
“He did good during the auditions,” Townsend said. “He’s been wonderful to work with. He’s a really, really good little dancer.”
His parents say it’s a special moment every time they see Andres on stage.
“I feel like, okay God, we’re doing the right thing,” Hernandez said. “I feel at peace because I see him in peace, I see him happy.”
Surrounded by his peers, Andres fits right in. That’s something his parents want for every person, including their son, who’s living with a disability.
“This life is to live it, to be happy and to share with others not to be secluded,” Hernandez said.
If you want to see Andres and the rest of the Viva El Paso cast, this weekend is their final performance.
