Ali Márquez-Qadiri

Ali Márquez-Qadiri (he/him) is a performer whose cultural background influences and shapes the way he approaches his artistic endeavors. As an Afghan/Mexican first-generation American raised in Sacramento, CA, becoming inspired by the arts was something that came as a surprise to his family- yet, they never discouraged this exploration. At UCLA’s School of Theater, Film, and Television, he has performed and served as a multi-instrumentalist in numerous mainstage-productions led by both Broadway and international performers. In the summer of 2025, Ali made his regional debut playing the iconic Ritchie Valens in Musical Theatre West’s production of Buddy: The Buddy Holly Story. StageSceneLA refers to him as having “his own youthful exuberance”- and as he continues to take strides in making new forms of representation on the stage, he hopes that this quality will continue to help him. 

​

When not performing, Ali is pursuing a minor in Public Affairs at UCLA’s Luskin School of Public Affairs. His passion towards understanding the way the world works both politically and artistically is deeply rooted in his art. He thanks his family, instructors, and peers for their continued support and inspiration. 

​

Regional Credits Include: Man of La Mancha (Anselmo), The Buddy Holly Story (Ritchie Valens), at Musical Theatre West. 

​

Select UCLA Credits Include: Natasha, Pierre…1812 (Ensemble/Anatole U/S), Something Rotten (Ensemble/Nigel U/S), Xanadu (Thalia), Into The Woods (Male Swing), The Time of Your Life (The Arab), Keffiyeh/Made in China. 

​

Select Awards Include: 3-year recipient of Jack Nicholson Prize in Acting, Rebecca Schaeffer Memorial Scholarship in Acting, and more.