Meet Ximena Wheeler | Executive Theater Producer & Designer

We had the good fortune of connecting with Ximena Wheeler and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Ximena, why did you pursue a creative career?
Choosing an artistic and creative career has been a deeply personal journey rooted in my lifelong passion for expression and connection. From my early beginnings in dance at the age of four to signing my first ensemble contract at fifteen, I discovered a profound love for creating entertainment that resonates with people’s emotions. This journey led me to realize the transformative power of live performances. Unlike artificial intelligence, which is impressive in its capabilities, artistic expression taps into human emotions and connects with audiences in ways that transcend technological achievements.

During my college years, I recognized that while my dance career on stage might be short-lived, my ability to shape and produce meaningful artistic experiences could extend far beyond. Pursuing a path as an executive producer, I sought to deepen my understanding and skills, culminating in obtaining my master’s degree in Argentina. For me, art is revolutionary—it serves as a platform for protest, exploration, and diversity. As a Latina immigrant, I am proud to use my art to advocate for feminism, empowerment, and to address critical social issues such as abuse and injustice. Through independent theater and dance, my goal is to foster deeper conversations that inspire local actions and promote a more inclusive society on a global scale.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
My art is deeply rooted in storytelling, collaboration, and social impact. What sets my work apart is my commitment to using theater and dance as tools for activism, empowerment, and cultural dialogue. I am incredibly proud to serve as the new Executive Director for the 2025 Salida Theater Festival—a role that feels like the culmination of over 17 years of dedication to the performing arts. I began my journey in Guatemala City, where I had the privilege of studying dance from a very young age and pursuing professional opportunities early on. My family’s sacrifices and support allowed me to access education and cultural experiences that many in my country could not, and I carry that awareness with deep gratitude and responsibility.

My path hasn’t always been easy. Being a young woman working in a male-dominated and often sexist industry in Guatemala forced me to develop a strong voice and unshakable confidence early on. I learned how to advocate for myself, how to earn the respect of older, more experienced professionals, and how to navigate professional spaces without compromising my values. Over the years, I’ve built a career that is fueled by curiosity, passion, and an unrelenting drive to create change through art. What I want the world to know about me and my brand is that I am here to push boundaries, to open space for diverse voices, and to use art to start meaningful conversations. My story is one of privilege, yes—but also of perseverance, purpose, and a profound belief in the power of the arts to revolutionize hearts, minds, and communities.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
If my best friend were visiting the area for a week, I’d plan a trip that blends local culture, outdoor adventure, and of course—plenty of live art and performance. Knowing how important theater is to both of us, I’d plan the visit around a local production in Salida or Buena Vista. We’d kick things off on a summer Friday with a big breakfast and coffee at Cool River Café, then stroll through downtown Buena Vista, stopping at Once Upon a Trapeze and The Book Nook to explore their curated selection of books and unique gifts. Later, we’d take my pup Monza on a hike up the Rock n’ Roll Trail to Midland Hill for sweeping views. After a refreshing smoothie from The Blend, we’d grab sandwiches from Sorelle’s and head to Turner Farm & Apple Orchard for their Friday at the Farm concert—there’s no better way to ease into the weekend than live music under the apple trees.

Saturday would start with coffee from Joyful on South Main before heading out to Cottonwood Lake for paddleboarding or just relaxing by the water. We’d make a scenic loop over the pass and back into town, stopping at the Buena Vista Heritage Museum for a dose of local history. That night, we’d head to Salida for a live theater show—something I’d plan ahead for—and then toast to the night with a craft cocktail at The Velveteen.

Sunday would be all about adventure and unwinding. We’d book a rafting trip with RMOC, who always make the river both thrilling and safe, then follow that up with mezcal cocktails at Coyote and a memorable dinner at Wesley & Rose to wrap up the weekend. There’s something about the combination of creativity, nature, and community here that makes this area unlike anywhere else—and I’d make sure my best friend experienced every bit of it.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
My dance and acting mentors: I would love to thank them for making me believe in myself and my talent, building a path for young, emerging artists, and all the hours of knowledge that were passed down to me and are not being passed along to the newer generations. Karina and Alice Flores, Patricia Rosenberg, Leandro Frias, Carla Carrieri,Nesti Dominguez, Devon Kasper, Amy Weisenhorn and all my theater and dance friends.

Website: https://salidatheaterfestival.org

Instagram: @salidatheaterfest / @thexuniversestudio

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thexwheeler/

Other: https://thexwheeler.weebly.com

Image Credits
Pic 3
Walter Malkarian

Pic 5 Pablo Lopez Balzaretti

Pic 6 Esteban Biba

Pic 7 Chelsea Tuttle

Pic 8 Willie de Leon