Juliette Carrillo, a distinguished alumna of UC Santa Cruz, is set to direct a bilingual production of the beloved children’s book “Go, Dog. Go!” at the renowned Children’s Theatre Company in Minneapolis. This production, which debuts on January 20, 2026, will showcase Carrillo’s artistic vision and her commitment to representing diverse narratives through theater.
Carrillo’s career has spanned multiple major U.S. cities, including New York, Los Angeles, and Seattle, where she has directed numerous theatrical productions. Her recent work at the Children’s Theatre Company marks a notable shift in her focus, as she typically directs new plays aimed at adult audiences. Yet, she embraces this opportunity to explore the dynamics of children’s theater, viewing it as a refreshing challenge. “It’s really fun for me to do something different,” she said.
Born into an artistic family in Southern California, Carrillo’s passion for theater was nurtured during her formative years. She attended UC Santa Cruz, where her interest in the performing arts flourished. Initially a psychology major, she transitioned to the theater arts department, influenced by professors such as Andrew Doe, Lee Breuer, and Kazimierz Braun. Carrillo credits Breuer for encouraging her to pursue a career in theater, which led her to the Yale School of Drama for her Master of Fine Arts.
Throughout her career, Carrillo has directed acclaimed works, including the world premiere of Octavio Solis’ “Lydia” and Benjamin Benne’s “Alma.” Her work has been featured in prestigious venues such as the Mark Taper Forum and the Kirk Douglas Theatre. She has also directed productions for the Oregon Shakespeare Festival, where she appreciates the extensive run times that allow for diverse audience engagement.
Carrillo finds great joy in directing productions across the country, as they offer her a glimpse into the various cultural landscapes of America. “I love diving into worlds that are very different than mine,” she explained, highlighting the importance of understanding different perspectives and sharing them with audiences.
In her upcoming production of “Go, Dog. Go!”, Carrillo aims to engage young audiences through a blend of humor and visual storytelling. The production will feature adult actors in colorful costumes, echoing the whimsical nature of the original book, written by P.D. Eastman in 1961. The adaptation will introduce Spanish dialogue, creating a bilingual experience titled “Ve Perro ¡Ve!” This initiative aims to normalize the use of Spanish among children, enriching their vocabulary and cultural awareness.
Carrillo’s excitement about this project reflects her commitment to fostering creativity and joy in young audiences. She hopes the production will provide laughter and uplifting moments for families, enriching their experience at the theater. “I’m really hoping for laughter in the audience,” she noted.
As rehearsals begin, Carrillo is inspired by her talented cast and crew, who she describes as “super creative and innovative.” The collaboration includes costume designer Danielle Nieves, with whom Carrillo previously worked, ensuring a vibrant visual presentation that resonates with the book’s charm.
The production of “Go, Dog. Go!” runs from January 20 to February 22, 2026, at the Children’s Theatre Company, the largest children’s theater in the United States. With a capacity of 800 seats, the venue offers an experience akin to a Broadway performance.
Carrillo’s journey from UC Santa Cruz to directing national productions exemplifies her dedication to the arts. She expresses a desire to return to her roots in Santa Cruz and direct a show there in the future. “It’s a very creative and impactful career,” she said, reflecting on the opportunities that have shaped her path.
