Dazzling lights, spinning planets and voices joined in song fill the American Repertory Theater (ART) as the curtains draw open. Behind them, former BHS Scholar and alumnus Diego Cordova ’19 tapes a microphone to his cheek. Not only is he preparing for the world premiere of “Wonder,” ART’s rendition of a familiar story, but he’s getting ready for his first-ever professional production.
The African American and Latino Scholars Program (AALSP) made the trip to Cambridge for the play’s opening night on Dec. 17, 2025, to watch and cheer on Cordova and the ART. Even after graduating from Syracuse University, Cordova strengthens new and old connections with the high school, and he empowers his community by embracing his cultural background.
Junior and Scholar Chora Bayer said she was impressed by Cordova’s performance playing Justin who is the boyfriend of Auggie’s older sister, Via. His character acts as a supportive anchor for other characters throughout the story.
“The words he expressed were so beautiful. His character is a kind character, and that portrays him as a person because he’s also a really kind person,” Bayer said. “I’m glad I got to witness him shine on stage.”
Cordova said he thought the show did a beautiful job of presenting its central character, Auggie Pullman, and his physical differences.
“[The musical] shows not only the amazing qualities that Auggie has as a person, but it just highlights, as well, that he’s a very normal kid,” Cordova said. “The very special thing about him is how he grows and handles all of what happens to him, but also the fact that he chooses to be kind to others whenever he can.”
Cordova said he thinks stories and storytelling mediums are amazing because of how impactful they can be in our world.
“I don’t think anyone would have gotten through lockdown without art and watching TV shows and listening to music. Where would we be in a world without art?” Cordova said.
Stephanie Hunt, an AASLP teacher, met and started teaching Cordova in his sophomore year of high school. Hunt said Cordova has an infectious joy about him.
“I mean, Diego has such a wonderful personality; it’s infectious in all the right ways. In talking with him, you feel all of his joy. He’s excited to meet people, hear their stories and share his,” Hunt said.
Hunt said that Broadway’s “Hamilton” had a big impact on Cordova and how he gives back to his community. Specifically, she said that Cordova was especially moved by Lin-Manuel Miranda.
“[Diego] really felt inspired by what he was doing and how he was changing the face of Broadway. Diego has kind of taken that on as a personal charge, too. He wants other people to know that you can look like him and have his background and do amazing things,” Hunt said.
Cordova said his ethnic identity inspires how he chooses to express himself and see the world.
“Latin America and Venezuela and all my life experiences go into everything that I have ever done,” Cordova said. “Any sort of young kid who’s from Latin America who thinks they could be in the ART would be like, ‘Oh, wow, I saw myself on stage, I actually feel like I can be a part of this,’ and that is very important to me.”
Hunt said it was heartwarming to see her former student and current students spend time together. After the musical finished, Cordova and two of his castmates joined the AALSP students to all talk about their own experiences.
Bayer said it was monumental for her and other Scholars to see Cordova represent and thrive on stage.
“There’s a lot of white people on the stage, and just seeing somebody that looks like some of the young Scholars is really inspiring,” Bayer said. “Especially at Brookline High, the theater department is not as diverse as it could be, so I think seeing a more diverse cast member was really nice.”
Cordova said his parents were scared when he decided to pursue acting as a profession because of how they thought he would be treated in the industry.
“You don’t usually see a lot of musicians or actors that come from our places and our countries, and if you do, the industry is not the kindest to them,” Cordova said. “Speaking towards my industry, I believe the Hispanic leads are some of the most underrepresented in Hollywood and TV and Film in the community.”
“I feel that ever since I’ve come to this country, I’ve had to prove myself wherever I’ve gone, and I think that’s something that was really prevalent throughout my time in BHS and throughout my time in Syracuse,” Cordova said. “I can’t lie to you, I wouldn’t say that this industry is super kind to people of color.”
Hunt said she feels only gratitude and pride for her former student.
“Just thank you,” Hunt said, “Thanks for sharing yourself, your passions, and your kindness with the world.”
