Let's make this birthday one to remember.

71 years old (Born on June 11, 1953)

Happy Birthday, Eduardo Machado! Another year older and even wiser in crafting theatrical magic—though surely not old enough for your own nostalgic Cuban flashback scenes just yet. From "Celia’s Funeral," which charmed audiences worldwide, to numerous L.A. Weekly Theatre Awards decorating your shelves (you're gonna need a bigger mantel soon!), you've proven repeatedly that life's best drama belongs on stage.

Thanks for bringing humor, depth—and yes—the right amount of passionate chaos into our lives through every fantastic play you create. Here's hoping this birthday sets the scene perfectly: lots of applause-worthy moments ahead without curtain calls anytime soon!