Ángel Lozado Shines as Usnavi in Signature Theatre’s 'In the Heights'

In the Heights: A New Chapter at Signature Theatre

The vibrant and culturally rich musical In the Heights, originally crafted by Lin-Manuel Miranda before his legendary work on Hamilton, is currently captivating audiences at the Signature Theatre in Arlington, Virginia. This iconic musical, known for its blend of hip-hop, rap, and pop ballads, is set in the heart of Washington Heights, a beloved Latin neighborhood in Manhattan. Within this lively setting, In the Heights unfolds a heartfelt story over a few bustling days.

At the center of this production is the talented and charismatic out actor, Ángel Lozado, who takes on the pivotal role of Usnavi de la Vega. Usnavi, a Dominican-American bodega owner named after a U.S. Navy vessel, is the heart and soul of his community, and Lozado masterfully embodies this character with warmth and authenticity.

The Perfect Timing for a Dream Role

Lozado, who has long aspired to portray Usnavi, finds deep personal resonance in this role. Reflecting on the serendipitous timing of his casting, Lozado shares, "During rehearsals, our director, James Vásquez, mentioned that In the Heights finds you when you need it, and that truly resonates with me." Having lost his grandmother shortly before being cast, Lozado feels a profound connection to the storyline as it parallels his own loss. "I believe I was meant to play Usnavi at this moment," he says, emphasizing the importance of timing in his journey.

A Vocal Talent Embraces a New Challenge

While Lozado is no stranger to musical theater, having trained vocally at Florida State University and debuted on Broadway in Bad Cinderella, taking on the role of Usnavi presents unique challenges. "Rapping is the most challenging part of the role," he admits. "It’s a different beast from traditional musical theater. Rapping requires precision and stamina, and it’s more taxing on the voice." Despite the challenges, Lozado rises to the occasion, showcasing his versatility and dedication.

A Changing Landscape

Living in Washington Heights himself, Lozado observes how much the neighborhood has evolved since 2008, the year in which the musical is set. "It’s very gentrified now, and rents are high," he notes. Though initially not intended as a period piece, In the Heights has become a reflection of a past era, capturing the essence of a community amidst change.

From Baseball to Broadway

Before discovering his passion for theater, Lozado was heavily involved in baseball, a sport deeply rooted in his Puerto Rican heritage. "My parents put me on a team at five, and I played first base through mid-high school," he recalls. However, as he navigated his identity and queerness within the sports world, he found himself drawn to the arts. "High school choir was my gateway to theater," he explains, marking a transformative shift in his career path.

A Journey of Representation

Throughout his career, Lozado has embraced being openly queer in the theater industry. While he acknowledges the complexities of casting dynamics, he proudly showcases his range by taking on diverse roles. "I’ve played many straight characters, and I see it as a testament to my acting," he says with a smile. His repertoire includes iconic Latin roles such as Usnavi, Bernardo in West Side Story, and Emilio Estefan in On Your Feet! Lozado expresses a desire to expand beyond these cultural narratives, aspiring to roles like George in Sondheim’s Sunday in the Park with George.

A Vision for the Future

Looking ahead, Lozado dreams of creating original roles on Broadway. He also envisions In the Heights resonating with both Latin and queer audiences. "It’s important to see our stories told authentically, without stereotypes," he affirms. "In the Heights celebrates the Latin community’s vibrancy and joy, paralleling the spirit of the queer community, especially as we approach WorldPride DC 2025 events."

Ángel Lozado’s portrayal of Usnavi in Signature Theatre’s production of In the Heights is a testament to his talent and passion, offering audiences an inspiring and genuine representation of community and identity.