Pepito & The Trash Cans is a high-energy, bilingual eco-theatre performance that sparks creativity, environmental awareness, and joyful learning. Through live music, and storytelling, Pepito transforms everyday discarded objects—bottles, cans, furniture, and more—into surprising musical instruments right before the audience’s eyes. Students explore rhythm, sound, and the power of imagination while discovering practical lessons about resilience and resourcefulness. Spanish is woven naturally throughout the performance, helping students learn and reinforce Spanish vocabulary in a fun, memorable way. The story also introduces elements of Bolivian culture, broadening global awareness and celebrating cultural diversity.
Blending theatre, music, and movement, this interactive performance invites students to clap, respond, and participate, turning the audience into part of the creative process. Pepito’s journey models perseverance, curiosity, and problem-solving, showing young people that limitations can become opportunities and that purpose can grow from unexpected places. Perfect for school assemblies and educational programming, the show supports arts integration, environmental education, language learning, cultural literacy, and social-emotional growth—all while keeping students fully engaged and entertained.
Watch a short trailer here: https://youtu.be/Oi-Y0wO1DAA
Artist Background
Luke Vandergriff is a multi-disciplinary artist who took an unconventional path into the arts. After earning a BA in Spanish from North Carolina State University in 2004, he moved to Bolivia, where he taught English to students from elementary school through university.
Although inspired by languages and cultures, classroom teaching wasn’t his true calling. Luke rediscovered his artistic voice while volunteering at a children’s home, leading art workshops, painting murals, writing and directing plays, and teaching music. Working creatively with children revealed his passion for storytelling through theatre, visual art, and sound—often using handmade instruments built from recycled materials.
In 2021, Luke and his family returned to his hometown of Raleigh, where he continues to grow as a performer, musician, and teaching artist. He has released several singles and the family-focused EP Pepito & The Trash Cans, which inspires young audiences through creativity, culture, and environmental awareness.
Search Criteria
- Program Type: Performance
- Discipline: Music, Storytelling
- Grade Level: Elementary
- Cultural Context: Hispanic, South American
- Accepts bookings in Johnston County
