In Latino Theatre Projects’ production of 26 Miles, audiences are swept away on an unforgettable road trip to Yellowstone between Beatriz (Alma Villegas) and her daughter, Olivia (Klara Cerris) as they struggle to reconnect after spending years apart. Written by Pulitzer winner, Quiara Alegria Hudes, and directed by Julie Beckman, this is a production that accurately speaks on issues of identity and family.
Set in 1986, 26 Miles thrives on a feeling of nostalgia. There’s references to Woodstock which Olivia thought was just an urban legend and Gloria Estefan’s iconic song “Conga.” Props include gas station road maps and yes, an actual typewriter which Olivia uses to type out her ‘zine. It’s a flashback to simpler times without all the technology surrounding us today.
With such a small cast, it’s crucial for audience members to feel the chemistry and connection between the characters and these actors definitely don’t disappoint. Klara Cerris shines as 15 year-old writer, Olivia. Her energy on stage is completely captivating and never feels overdone or fake. She’s definitely an actress to keep an eye on. Similarly, Alma Villegas gives a fantastic performance as Olivia’s feisty mom from Cuba. When the two are on stage together it’s pure magic.
There’s a powerful scene between Beatriz and Olivia in which Olivia confronts her mother on her lack of communication and how her life has been like living with her dad. Olivia is screaming and tears are rolling down her face. It’s a scene so well executed that as an audience member, you find your heart breaking right along with Olivia’s. Being able to touch an audience member in that way isn’t something easily done, but 26 Miles pulls it off effortlessly.
While the production’s set takes on a minimalist approach, an engaging feature is the projector in the background which changes with each scene in order to show a sense of time and place. Along with the projections, sound also plays a special role in this play. The sound of the howling wind and car doors opening and closing might seem like small touches, but they definitely don’t go unnoticed and add a dose of realism.
Self-identity is something we’ve all struggled with at one point or another in our lives so it’s easy to relate to Olivia who struggles with relating to both her American father and Cuban mother. This is an issue many Latinos face – especially living in the United States. It can be difficult to balance both cultures in a way that still makes you feel like you’re being true to yourself. It’s an issue people often don’t think about unless they’re being affected by it.
On that note, now more than ever, it’s important to tell these Latino stories that we don’t often hear about. This is something Latino Theatre Projects has done extremely well – especially in 26 Miles which speaks on these important cultural issues.
26 Miles is a production that will stay with you long after you walk out of the theatre.
26 Miles, a Latino Theatre Projects production directed by Julie Beckman. At West of Lenin in Seattle through April 8. For tickets visit brownpapertickets.com.