According to Cisneros, who grew up in La Mirada, having a place devoted to theater and the arts is extremely important for the community. 

“I think La Mirada is just like any community where young people need a creative outlet,” Cisneros said. “One thing Phantom Projects does for our audiences and performers is that they feel safe here, they can be open and honest about what they are going through.”

The Gala will feature alumni from the Phantom Projects program including Natalie Wachen (HBO’s Boardwalk Empire), composer Adam Gubman (The Today Show, 2012 Presidential Election, America’s Got Talent), Ashley Arlene Nelson (West Coast Premiere of Lysistrata Jones), Emily Lappi, Tyler Campbell and more.

“We have over thirty Phantom alumni flying in for the event,” Cisneros said. “We have performers from all seventeen years in attendance...it wasn’t difficult to get them to come and support the company they helped to create years ago.”

You can purchase tickets for the Fundraising Gala on August 9th will be celebrating 17 years of Ciserno’s dedication to Phantom Projects here.