NJN HISPANIC YOUTH SHOWCASE
HISTORY

In the late ‘50s and ‘60s, the city of Newark became the Mecca of entertainment for Hispanic audiences. El Caribe, Treat and Plaza theaters provided the center stage for Latino movies and super star performers from all over Latin America and Spain.

The most popular event of the era was the showcasing of Hispanic talent in contests that inspired families and communities. And, the most popular performer was a ten-year-old movie star from Spain, named Joselito. He dominated the silver screen and the international music scene with emotionally captivating performances.

Children of all ages imitated this young man, while gaining interest in traditional songs, dances and the folkloric arts. Parents capitalized on the children’s youthful enthusiasm by providing intensive classes on the Latino culture in song, dance and costume. These educational experiences nurtured the young performers and prepared them for the much-celebrated yearly competitions.

Today, these theaters are no longer in existence but the desire and interest to continue this performance tradition still lingers in Hispanic communities. That is why for the last 19 years Images/Imagenes, the longest running Latino program on the Public Broadcasting System, has kept the tradition
alive with the NJN Hispanic Youth Showcase.

This family theatrical event and television special has received an Emmy Award and six Emmy nominations while gaining recognition by the Arts Council Co-op as one of the top six children’s entertainment programs in the nation. Over 3,800 youngsters have participated in the competition. Many of the winners have gone on to appear in international television shows, network commercials, Hollywood movies and the Broadway stage. Presently, it is regarded as one of the oldest Hispanic youth talent shows in the country.