‘Viva La Tules’ next month at Winchester

Friday, May 16, 1997 | 11:59 a.m.

The production is a joint effort of the National Globe Theatre and the Clark County Parks and Recreation Department.

VanAnn Moore, a singer-actress, will portray Dona Dona Tules Barcelo (1804-1852), who was the topic of an article in Harper's April 1854 magazine in which she was called Santa Fe's foremost lady gambler. Her famous gambling hall was patronized by soldiers, wagon traders, conspirators, priests and society members.

It was a period of changing values, a clash of cultures and civil strife. It was during this time that Tules became one of the most colorful, independent, wealthy and influential women in New Mexico (and Mexican) history. She played an important part in assisting the American Army of the West in wresting New Mexico (a northern province of Mexico) away from Mexico.

Moore has more than 35 major roles to her credit in opera, musicals and plays. Mark Zwilling, music director of the First Presbyterian Church, will be the accompanist. Raul Gomez from Topeka, Kan., will assist on the Flamenco guitar.

Tickets, $10, are on sale at the Winchester Community Theater and through the National Globe Theatre, 658-6741.