Richard Soto

In 1901, Mexican American farmer Gregorio Cortez is forced on the run from Texas Rangers, evading a massive manhunt on horseback for days following a heated misunderstanding leads to the death of a lawman.

Nothing is more important to Mexican-American Marta Delacruz than her quinceanera -- the traditional 15th birthday celebration that symbolically ushers a young girl into adulthood. Marta is understandably angry and resentful when her father cancels the gala event, but her outlook changes completely when she accidentally uncovers her father's secret: He never became a U.S. citizen.

Maricela and her mother Eugenia have fled El Salvador for the US with hopes of building a better life. Unable to find work in her profession as a school teacher, Eugenia becomes a live-in housekeeper to the affluent Gannett family. Conflict occurs when Maricela clashes with teenage Stacy Gannett, who resents her presence at home and at school. Can Maricela win Stacy's friendship and still remain true to her own ideals and values?

American Playhouse is an anthology television series periodically broadcast by Public Broadcasting Service in the United States.