Trova
Orange, California | Film Short
Drama, Music
In 1935 Cuba, María Teresa Vera, a renowned troubadour, must confront her past and a society that doesn’t accept female troubadours. With the help of a young guitarist, she makes a triumphant return to the stage, fighting for her voice, her legacy, and her place in Cuban music history.
Trova
Orange, California | Film Short
Drama, Music

1 Campaigns | California, United States
Green Light
This campaign raised $15,000 for production. Follow the filmmaker to receive future updates on this project.
21 supporters | followers
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In 1935 Cuba, María Teresa Vera, a renowned troubadour, must confront her past and a society that doesn’t accept female troubadours. With the help of a young guitarist, she makes a triumphant return to the stage, fighting for her voice, her legacy, and her place in Cuban music history.
- The Story
- Wishlist
- Updates
- The Team
- Community
Mission Statement
The Story
Inspired by actual events...
In 1935 Cuba, María Teresa Vera, a brilliant but troubled female troubadour, reaches out to the talented Lorenzo Hierrezuelo, a guitarist and singer of the famed Justo García Quartet, to help her reclaim her musical legacy. At her home, she opens her heart and shares the tumultuous journey that led her away from the stage: her wild, bohemian days performing with a male orchestra, her spiritual awakening through the Yoruba traditions, and her vow to never return to music.
María Teresa Vera in 1935
But as the weight of eviction notices and mounting financial strain threaten her family's survival, María is forced to confront her past and make a daring choice. To save her ill sister and eight nieces and nephews, she must return to the stage—one last performance to secure their future. With Lorenzo's unwavering support, they bring to life María's most personal creation: Veinte Años, a hauntingly beautiful song she composed with the lyrics by her childhood friend. Together, they ignite the stage of a bustling Cuban nightclub, where the raw emotion of their performance captivates the crowd.
As the applause reverberates through the room, María realizes that her struggles have not broken her but have forged her into something more powerful. With each strum and step forward, she honors her roots, resilience, and unbreakable bond with music, knowing that her journey is far from over. This short film is a story of redemption, reclaiming identity, and the strength to rise again, no matter the odds.
María Teresa Vera with her band, 1931
Who is María Teresa Vera?
María Teresa Vera (1895-1965) was a pioneering Afro-Cuban musician whose groundbreaking contributions to the Cuban "trova" music movement in the 1930s and 1940s defied societal norms. Born to a single mother and raised in poverty, Vera overcame significant barriers, including societal and cultural limitations, to find her voice through music. Influenced by Yoruba religious practices, she faced opposition from both society and Yoruba leaders but persevered, paving the way for future female artists.
What is a Troubadour?
At its core, a troubadour is a traveling singer who writes and performs their own music. These artists are often self-taught and write about social issues, love, and heartbreak. They have a distinct sound, and a band supports their performances. They originate from medieval France but spread throughout the world in the centuries following. Cuba adopted its own style and sound by the 19th century, known as the Trova music movement (the artists were subsequently known as trovadores).
Trovadores in the early 20th century
Before the 1930s, trovadores were only men. This barrier was shattered by Vera, who not only opened the door for female Cuban singers but brought Cuban music to the international spotlight.
Honoring an Unexplored Legacy...
Trova delves into a crucial moment of María's life as she confronts societal, religious, and gender-based challenges. If María fails to overcome these barriers, she risks not only her musical career and family's survival but also her legacy, the foundation she worked so hard to lay for future generations of women.
We want our film to respect the history and subject matter of its content. Trova will be filmed in Spanish with English subtitles.
A Family Affair
The story of Trova holds a special place in director Jake Ajamian's heart because it mirrors the dedication and sacrifices of his grandmother and mother. They are the hardest-working women he knows, and their relentless - but often unseen - efforts have shaped their careers and supported his family, creating opportunities for their children to thrive. Similarly, María's struggles and contributions to the industry often go unrecognized despite her role in paving the way for other women in music, especially in Cuba.
Jake Ajamian with his mother and grandmother, 2007
As a Cuban child, Jake was immersed in María's music thanks to his grandmother and mother. While there were many remarkable female Cuban artists, they made it a point to ensure he understood María's significance. María was a trailblazer whose contributions to the Cuban "trova" movement paved the way for Cuban female icons like Celia Cruz and Omara Portuondo. Despite her monumental contributions to music, María hasn't received the recognition she truly deserves.
Celia Cruz (top) and Omara Portuondo (bottom) were
international sensations throughout the 1950s to 1970s
after the breakout of María Teresa Vera
How We Represent María
Resilience: María Teresa Vera's journey challenged societal norms. She defied the expectation that women could not be trovadores, and with her passion for music, Vera was unstoppable.
Artistic Struggle: Trova explores how María's hardships with poverty and familial obligations fueled her return to music. Her drive underscores the need for art and personal expression.
Cultural Legacy: Trova highlights the tension between Afro-Cuban spirituality, gender roles, and artistic freedom as María navigates tradition while making her mark as one of the most groundbreaking artists in Cuban music history.
A Fight Still Going On
María's story reflects the universal struggle of women fighting for their place in male-dominated industries. María is facing poverty with her family depending on her to survive. She wants to return to what she loves and knows best, but does she have what it takes to break the gender barrier?
Modern-day Trovadores in Santiago de Cuba, Cuba
This story resonates with modern conversations about gender equality and artistic freedom. With a growing global interest in Latino music and culture, Trova recognizes an audience eager for stories of cultural resilience and recognition of one of the most important figures in Cuban music history.
Visualizing 1930s Cuba
Trova will have a warm color scheme overall. Distinct hues will carefully accentuate each scene to enhance and symbolize its respective themes and tones. The contrast will also be high during the current-day scenes, signifying the possibility that Vera's past glory may not be reinvigorated. The comfort of the stage has given way to her personal struggles and gender barriers.
Left is Carmen (2022), right is Can You Ever Forgive Me? (2018)
Top is The United States vs. Billie Holiday (2021), middle is Priscilla (2023), bottom is Fargo (2014-)
As María looks back on her glamorous past with Lorenzo, the flashback scenes will shift in color and lighting. Saturation and contrast will change to indicate the passage of time to María's early success. This shift aligns with the feeling of vintage nostalgia and the golden-soaked stages of early 20th-century Cuba.
Top is Sucker Punch (2011), middle is Sparkle (2012), bottom is The United States vs. Billie Holiday (2021)
The Next Generation
Our crew consists of students from Chapman University at the Dodge College of Film and Media Arts. Based in Orange, California, our school has been ranked the fourth-best film school in the US for the past five years. For many of us, this is our senior thesis capstone project. Our years of studying, working on student films, and learning from our past mistakes and successes have led to this moment. While this is a Cuban story, our crew comes from diverse backgrounds and have their own life experiences. Our collaborative process is great for this film since we can bring our unique perspectives each step of the way.
Dodge College of Film and Media Arts at Chapman University in Orange, California
Breaking Barriers
If Trova surpasses the $15,000 goal, we can significantly elevate the quality and scope of the film while ensuring it is brought to life with the depth and vision it deserves. We will focus on improving key aspects of the production, including advanced equipment rentals, professional-grade post-production, and enhanced set design.
A critical component of Trova is honoring the Cuban heritage at the heart of the story. With this expanded budget, we can also prioritize casting talented actors who can authentically represent and celebrate the richness of Cuban culture. By collaborating with performers who have a personal connection to this heritage, we aim to bring genuine passion, depth, and cultural accuracy to the screen.
Present-day club in Havana, Cuba
Beyond the technical enhancements, reaching this goal will allow us to promote Trova effectively. Funds will go toward entering prominent film festivals, increasing its exposure, and allowing us to connect with larger audiences and industry professionals.
Coming Up
Trova begins principal photography in late February 2025. We are currently looking for locations to film that can replicate an early 20th-century Cuba in Los Angeles and Orange County. As we are in the thick of pre-production, shot and set design is also being prepared. We anticipate a completed cut of the film by late Spring 2025 and a festival run the following Summer, Fall, and Winter. Contributors who reach the second incentive level will receive the film via a password-protected link. Funds will go towards production and film festival applications. Many of our crew will graduate in May, but this film will live long after our Chapman era as we take this film to film festivals around the world.
Join the Trova family by contributing to our mission!
Wishlist
Use the WishList to Pledge cash and Loan items - or - Make a pledge by selecting an Incentive directly.
Talent Compensation
Costs $2,000
This will compensate our excellent actors and reimburse their gas mileage!
Band Extras
Costs $2,000
Trova will feature two different bands! This will cover their compensation and reimburse their gas mileage.
About This Team
For most of our key crew, this is our senior thesis capstone project! Our years of studying and helping other productions in the Los Angeles and Orange County areas have led to this moment. Trova is a labor of love and our first step into the film industry.
Meet the Trova Team
Writer & Director:
Jake Ajamian
Jake was born and raised in Pasadena, California. He is a senior Directing major at the Dodge College of Film and Media Arts at Chapman University. Growing up in a family of immigrant descent from Cuba and Armenia, he was fortunate to experience a blend of traditions and cultures that shaped who he is today. He is deeply proud of his heritage and the diverse influences that enriched his life. As a filmmaker, his passion is to direct stories that reflect and celebrate his culture. He aspires to bring more of these experiences to the silver screen, sharing the beauty and richness of his background with a wider audience. His favorite films include School of Rock (2003), Buena Vista Social Club (1999), and Cinema Paradiso (1988).
Producer:
Ayanna Lopez
Ayanna was raised in the San Fernando Valley in California. She is a senior Creative Producing major at the Dodge College of Film and Media Arts at Chapman University. She has navigated various roles in film, from a production assistant to a producer. Ayanna wants to give a unique perspective through her work by drawing from her own experiences and artistic passions. As she crafts Trova with Jake, Ayanna wants to specifically explore what it is like to be a young Latina adult. Ayanna carries an eight-year dance background, along with training in acting, singing, and choreography. Ayanna's all-time favorite film and major artistic inspiration is Before Sunrise (1995).
Unit Production Manager:
Luke Buchanan
Luke was born and raised in Aurora, Illinois. He moved west to southern California in 2022 to study Creative Producing at the Dodge College of Film and Media Arts at Chapman University. Now a senior at the University, Luke has produced a handful of short films, including his own senior thesis, during his studies. He's collaborated with his peers to make a variety of films, from comedy to drama. Luke wants to create narrative and visually distinct projects based on real-world issues. As an advertising minor, Luke also boasts experience in marketing strategy and design. Luke's favorite media include The Last of Us franchise, Euphoria (2019-), and Jojo Rabbit (2019).
Director of Photography:
Justin Lee
Justin is a cinematographer based in Los Angeles and Orange County, California. He is a senior Cinematography major at the Dodge College of Film and Media Arts at Chapman University. Justin started as a camera assistant and gaffer, but with multiple years of experience under his belt, he now shoots his own projects. Justin also has experience as a camera operator for commercials, music videos, and independent films. He focuses on the composition of what's on camera - angles and camera movement. Justin understands less is more in cinematography, but he is not afraid to accomplish a complicated and extensive shot.
Production Designer:
Alanis Rosa
Alanis was born and raised in Puerto Rico before moving to southern California to attend school. She is a senior Production Design major at the Dodge College of Film and Media Arts at Chapman University. Alanis loves working in any production department but has a true passion for the art department. She loves to give context through the environment the characters live in. Alanis especially likes period pieces, as they are an intricate task for production designers to take on. She is also a practicing graphic designer, a valuable tool for production designers. Alanis likes to sketch, paint, play guitar, read, and study fashion in her free time.
Editor:
Clarissa Morales
Clarissa was born to a Mexican family and raised in Los Angeles, California. She is a senior Editing major at the Dodge College of Film and Media Arts at Chapman University. Clarissa's interest in film began with making videos, as she would often create short films with her friends for school or their own entertainment. As Clarissa has honed her skills in editing throughout her years of school, she hopes to work as a trailer editor when she graduates in May. Clarissa's favorite films include Pan's Labyrinth (2006) and Harold and Maude (1971); she also has a love for The Hunger Games book series.
Sound Design:
Ian Jicha
Ian was born and raised in Los Angeles, California. He graduated from the Dodge College of Film and Media Arts at Chapman University in May of 2024 with a degree in Screenwriting. As he fell more in love with film, he began to gravitate towards post-production and sound design. Ian now works as a professional sound mixer and designer in Los Angeles and Orange County. He loves to create soundscapes for dramatic films and is passionate about sound and music in film. Ian's favorite films include Taxi Driver (1976) and The Apartment (1960), but he also loves the classic novel The Great Gatsby.
Trova also has help from over 30 additional crew members, join the Trova family to learn more about them too!
Incentives
- The Story
- Wishlist
- Updates
- The Team
- Community
Mission Statement
The Story
Inspired by actual events...
In 1935 Cuba, María Teresa Vera, a brilliant but troubled female troubadour, reaches out to the talented Lorenzo Hierrezuelo, a guitarist and singer of the famed Justo García Quartet, to help her reclaim her musical legacy. At her home, she opens her heart and shares the tumultuous journey that led her away from the stage: her wild, bohemian days performing with a male orchestra, her spiritual awakening through the Yoruba traditions, and her vow to never return to music.
María Teresa Vera in 1935
But as the weight of eviction notices and mounting financial strain threaten her family's survival, María is forced to confront her past and make a daring choice. To save her ill sister and eight nieces and nephews, she must return to the stage—one last performance to secure their future. With Lorenzo's unwavering support, they bring to life María's most personal creation: Veinte Años, a hauntingly beautiful song she composed with the lyrics by her childhood friend. Together, they ignite the stage of a bustling Cuban nightclub, where the raw emotion of their performance captivates the crowd.
As the applause reverberates through the room, María realizes that her struggles have not broken her but have forged her into something more powerful. With each strum and step forward, she honors her roots, resilience, and unbreakable bond with music, knowing that her journey is far from over. This short film is a story of redemption, reclaiming identity, and the strength to rise again, no matter the odds.
María Teresa Vera with her band, 1931
Who is María Teresa Vera?
María Teresa Vera (1895-1965) was a pioneering Afro-Cuban musician whose groundbreaking contributions to the Cuban "trova" music movement in the 1930s and 1940s defied societal norms. Born to a single mother and raised in poverty, Vera overcame significant barriers, including societal and cultural limitations, to find her voice through music. Influenced by Yoruba religious practices, she faced opposition from both society and Yoruba leaders but persevered, paving the way for future female artists.
What is a Troubadour?
At its core, a troubadour is a traveling singer who writes and performs their own music. These artists are often self-taught and write about social issues, love, and heartbreak. They have a distinct sound, and a band supports their performances. They originate from medieval France but spread throughout the world in the centuries following. Cuba adopted its own style and sound by the 19th century, known as the Trova music movement (the artists were subsequently known as trovadores).
Trovadores in the early 20th century
Before the 1930s, trovadores were only men. This barrier was shattered by Vera, who not only opened the door for female Cuban singers but brought Cuban music to the international spotlight.
Honoring an Unexplored Legacy...
Trova delves into a crucial moment of María's life as she confronts societal, religious, and gender-based challenges. If María fails to overcome these barriers, she risks not only her musical career and family's survival but also her legacy, the foundation she worked so hard to lay for future generations of women.
We want our film to respect the history and subject matter of its content. Trova will be filmed in Spanish with English subtitles.
A Family Affair
The story of Trova holds a special place in director Jake Ajamian's heart because it mirrors the dedication and sacrifices of his grandmother and mother. They are the hardest-working women he knows, and their relentless - but often unseen - efforts have shaped their careers and supported his family, creating opportunities for their children to thrive. Similarly, María's struggles and contributions to the industry often go unrecognized despite her role in paving the way for other women in music, especially in Cuba.
Jake Ajamian with his mother and grandmother, 2007
As a Cuban child, Jake was immersed in María's music thanks to his grandmother and mother. While there were many remarkable female Cuban artists, they made it a point to ensure he understood María's significance. María was a trailblazer whose contributions to the Cuban "trova" movement paved the way for Cuban female icons like Celia Cruz and Omara Portuondo. Despite her monumental contributions to music, María hasn't received the recognition she truly deserves.
Celia Cruz (top) and Omara Portuondo (bottom) were
international sensations throughout the 1950s to 1970s
after the breakout of María Teresa Vera
How We Represent María
Resilience: María Teresa Vera's journey challenged societal norms. She defied the expectation that women could not be trovadores, and with her passion for music, Vera was unstoppable.
Artistic Struggle: Trova explores how María's hardships with poverty and familial obligations fueled her return to music. Her drive underscores the need for art and personal expression.
Cultural Legacy: Trova highlights the tension between Afro-Cuban spirituality, gender roles, and artistic freedom as María navigates tradition while making her mark as one of the most groundbreaking artists in Cuban music history.
A Fight Still Going On
María's story reflects the universal struggle of women fighting for their place in male-dominated industries. María is facing poverty with her family depending on her to survive. She wants to return to what she loves and knows best, but does she have what it takes to break the gender barrier?
Modern-day Trovadores in Santiago de Cuba, Cuba
This story resonates with modern conversations about gender equality and artistic freedom. With a growing global interest in Latino music and culture, Trova recognizes an audience eager for stories of cultural resilience and recognition of one of the most important figures in Cuban music history.
Visualizing 1930s Cuba
Trova will have a warm color scheme overall. Distinct hues will carefully accentuate each scene to enhance and symbolize its respective themes and tones. The contrast will also be high during the current-day scenes, signifying the possibility that Vera's past glory may not be reinvigorated. The comfort of the stage has given way to her personal struggles and gender barriers.
Left is Carmen (2022), right is Can You Ever Forgive Me? (2018)
Top is The United States vs. Billie Holiday (2021), middle is Priscilla (2023), bottom is Fargo (2014-)
As María looks back on her glamorous past with Lorenzo, the flashback scenes will shift in color and lighting. Saturation and contrast will change to indicate the passage of time to María's early success. This shift aligns with the feeling of vintage nostalgia and the golden-soaked stages of early 20th-century Cuba.
Top is Sucker Punch (2011), middle is Sparkle (2012), bottom is The United States vs. Billie Holiday (2021)
The Next Generation
Our crew consists of students from Chapman University at the Dodge College of Film and Media Arts. Based in Orange, California, our school has been ranked the fourth-best film school in the US for the past five years. For many of us, this is our senior thesis capstone project. Our years of studying, working on student films, and learning from our past mistakes and successes have led to this moment. While this is a Cuban story, our crew comes from diverse backgrounds and have their own life experiences. Our collaborative process is great for this film since we can bring our unique perspectives each step of the way.
Dodge College of Film and Media Arts at Chapman University in Orange, California
Breaking Barriers
If Trova surpasses the $15,000 goal, we can significantly elevate the quality and scope of the film while ensuring it is brought to life with the depth and vision it deserves. We will focus on improving key aspects of the production, including advanced equipment rentals, professional-grade post-production, and enhanced set design.
A critical component of Trova is honoring the Cuban heritage at the heart of the story. With this expanded budget, we can also prioritize casting talented actors who can authentically represent and celebrate the richness of Cuban culture. By collaborating with performers who have a personal connection to this heritage, we aim to bring genuine passion, depth, and cultural accuracy to the screen.
Present-day club in Havana, Cuba
Beyond the technical enhancements, reaching this goal will allow us to promote Trova effectively. Funds will go toward entering prominent film festivals, increasing its exposure, and allowing us to connect with larger audiences and industry professionals.
Coming Up
Trova begins principal photography in late February 2025. We are currently looking for locations to film that can replicate an early 20th-century Cuba in Los Angeles and Orange County. As we are in the thick of pre-production, shot and set design is also being prepared. We anticipate a completed cut of the film by late Spring 2025 and a festival run the following Summer, Fall, and Winter. Contributors who reach the second incentive level will receive the film via a password-protected link. Funds will go towards production and film festival applications. Many of our crew will graduate in May, but this film will live long after our Chapman era as we take this film to film festivals around the world.
Join the Trova family by contributing to our mission!
Wishlist
Use the WishList to Pledge cash and Loan items - or - Make a pledge by selecting an Incentive directly.
Talent Compensation
Costs $2,000
This will compensate our excellent actors and reimburse their gas mileage!
Band Extras
Costs $2,000
Trova will feature two different bands! This will cover their compensation and reimburse their gas mileage.
About This Team
For most of our key crew, this is our senior thesis capstone project! Our years of studying and helping other productions in the Los Angeles and Orange County areas have led to this moment. Trova is a labor of love and our first step into the film industry.
Meet the Trova Team
Writer & Director:
Jake Ajamian
Jake was born and raised in Pasadena, California. He is a senior Directing major at the Dodge College of Film and Media Arts at Chapman University. Growing up in a family of immigrant descent from Cuba and Armenia, he was fortunate to experience a blend of traditions and cultures that shaped who he is today. He is deeply proud of his heritage and the diverse influences that enriched his life. As a filmmaker, his passion is to direct stories that reflect and celebrate his culture. He aspires to bring more of these experiences to the silver screen, sharing the beauty and richness of his background with a wider audience. His favorite films include School of Rock (2003), Buena Vista Social Club (1999), and Cinema Paradiso (1988).
Producer:
Ayanna Lopez
Ayanna was raised in the San Fernando Valley in California. She is a senior Creative Producing major at the Dodge College of Film and Media Arts at Chapman University. She has navigated various roles in film, from a production assistant to a producer. Ayanna wants to give a unique perspective through her work by drawing from her own experiences and artistic passions. As she crafts Trova with Jake, Ayanna wants to specifically explore what it is like to be a young Latina adult. Ayanna carries an eight-year dance background, along with training in acting, singing, and choreography. Ayanna's all-time favorite film and major artistic inspiration is Before Sunrise (1995).
Unit Production Manager:
Luke Buchanan
Luke was born and raised in Aurora, Illinois. He moved west to southern California in 2022 to study Creative Producing at the Dodge College of Film and Media Arts at Chapman University. Now a senior at the University, Luke has produced a handful of short films, including his own senior thesis, during his studies. He's collaborated with his peers to make a variety of films, from comedy to drama. Luke wants to create narrative and visually distinct projects based on real-world issues. As an advertising minor, Luke also boasts experience in marketing strategy and design. Luke's favorite media include The Last of Us franchise, Euphoria (2019-), and Jojo Rabbit (2019).
Director of Photography:
Justin Lee
Justin is a cinematographer based in Los Angeles and Orange County, California. He is a senior Cinematography major at the Dodge College of Film and Media Arts at Chapman University. Justin started as a camera assistant and gaffer, but with multiple years of experience under his belt, he now shoots his own projects. Justin also has experience as a camera operator for commercials, music videos, and independent films. He focuses on the composition of what's on camera - angles and camera movement. Justin understands less is more in cinematography, but he is not afraid to accomplish a complicated and extensive shot.
Production Designer:
Alanis Rosa
Alanis was born and raised in Puerto Rico before moving to southern California to attend school. She is a senior Production Design major at the Dodge College of Film and Media Arts at Chapman University. Alanis loves working in any production department but has a true passion for the art department. She loves to give context through the environment the characters live in. Alanis especially likes period pieces, as they are an intricate task for production designers to take on. She is also a practicing graphic designer, a valuable tool for production designers. Alanis likes to sketch, paint, play guitar, read, and study fashion in her free time.
Editor:
Clarissa Morales
Clarissa was born to a Mexican family and raised in Los Angeles, California. She is a senior Editing major at the Dodge College of Film and Media Arts at Chapman University. Clarissa's interest in film began with making videos, as she would often create short films with her friends for school or their own entertainment. As Clarissa has honed her skills in editing throughout her years of school, she hopes to work as a trailer editor when she graduates in May. Clarissa's favorite films include Pan's Labyrinth (2006) and Harold and Maude (1971); she also has a love for The Hunger Games book series.
Sound Design:
Ian Jicha
Ian was born and raised in Los Angeles, California. He graduated from the Dodge College of Film and Media Arts at Chapman University in May of 2024 with a degree in Screenwriting. As he fell more in love with film, he began to gravitate towards post-production and sound design. Ian now works as a professional sound mixer and designer in Los Angeles and Orange County. He loves to create soundscapes for dramatic films and is passionate about sound and music in film. Ian's favorite films include Taxi Driver (1976) and The Apartment (1960), but he also loves the classic novel The Great Gatsby.