Laura Vega, a professional SAG/AFTRA bilingual actress with more than 30 years of experience, has an impressive career spanning theater, television and film. Notable credits include Criminal Minds, It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia, Baskets and Law & Order. Laura does all of this, while being an active member of the Tournament of Roses.
Laura’s journey with the Tournament of Roses began four years ago, out of curiosity about the white-suited volunteers she often saw around Pasadena, her home for more than 30 years. Intrigued, she decided to look further into the volunteer application process and was soon invited to join the iconic New Year’s Day tradition. Laura began her Tournament journey in 2021, and has served on both the Post Parade and Formation committees, forming numerous connections and creating special memories along the way. For Laura, the Tournament of Roses is more than just a parade; it is an opportunity to showcase the beloved city she calls home to the world. Her enthusiasm and dedication are evident in her favorite memories, such as learning to play softball at the age of 60, thanks to a fellow Member, and the joy of seeing the floats up close during the overnight shifts of the Formation committee. The support from her fellow committee members, along with an abundance of snacks, coffee and water, helps make the night go by with ease. And the cherry on top is being one of the first to see the floats arrive on Parade morning before the sun comes up.
Laura’s commitment to her community extends beyond the Tournament of Roses. A champion of Latino heritage, she is actively working to represent and provide narratives for the stage, TV and film. Her artistic mission is reflected in her latest project, A Woman Named Gloria, written by Josefina López, premiering on August 30, 2024, at CASA 0101 Theater. The play tells the story of the spirit of Gloria Molina, a trailblazing figure who inspires a young woman to live a life of service and purpose. Gloria Molina served as a member of the Los Angeles City Council, the California State Assembly, the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors and the Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority. This production of her life will play through October 6. Laura is proud to showcase Latino heroines while bringing diverse cultural stories to the forefront with this play.
Laura has also written, produced and starred in several plays for Frida Kahlo’s yearly 10 Minute Theater Festival, including Lockdown, The Secret, That’s What It’s All About (also a short film), Familix, and La Cita. Her play La Cita received the Best Play and Best Actress awards at the Short and Sweet Hollywood Festival 2024 Latinx. Beyond theater, Laura has contributed to the film industry as a co-writer and producer of Love Sanchez and Norte, as well as writing and producing the film shorts Ghostfellas and That’s What It’s All About.
Laura’s passion for the arts and her community is unmatched and the only thing that could surpass it is her love for her family. Among her many achievements and “Best Day Ever” moments, the birth of her daughter Graciela stands out as her “Best Day Ever!” As the upcoming parade season is upon us, Laura is excited to work with her committee, decorating barriers and enjoying the adrenaline rush that is Parade season.
To learn more about the world premiere of A Woman Named Gloria, visit www.casa0101.org/tickets.
The show will run from August 30 to October 6, with previews happening August 23 – 25 and August 28.
