Part site-specific performance, part art installation, and part tourist attraction, The Poco Loco Tour explored the social, political, cultural and economic forces that have defined and redefined San Francisco’s Mission District. The work featured a 90-minute, audio tour of San Francisco’s Mission District scripted and performed by the members of Culture Clash with sound and music composed by Jack Wickert, and a live performance by a tour docent (played by Ric Salinas of Culture Clash). Circuit Network orchestrated project logistics. The tour took place on board the colorful Mexican Bus (an art project created for Festival 2000 that continues to be used for special events).
Wickert, a composer and musician, is a veteran of the San Francisco Mime Troupe. He had many stories to share—of growing up in the Mission; of the ragtag hippy Boat Club on China Basin; of The Farm, an art and music venue that he co-founded; and of the poets and artists who have called the Mission home. Shortly before The Poco Loco Tour, Wickert had collaborated with Popcorn Anti-Theater, a mobile urban touring theater experience presented on a converted school bus.
Culture Clash was founded on Cinco de Mayo, 1984 in San Francisco’s Mission District. Its members—Richard Montoya, Ric Salinas and Herbert Siguenza—have been developing, writing, producing, performing, and touring stage works for the Culture Clash ensemble and as independent projects.
Circuit Network is dedicated to fostering the development of contemporary dance, theater and performing artists who are creating work of high artistic caliber, deep social import and wide cultural impact. It provides services to the performing arts community with a particular emphasis on fostering partnerships between artists and communities.