The Latino Theatre Projects was created in 2011, with the aim of engaging the Latino community of Puget Sound in theatre-based projects which they term “Teatro Útil” or “Useful Theatre”. Their latest play Ay Carmela!, is an adaptation of the play by Spanish playwright, José Sanchís Sinisterra. Directed by Fernando Luna, the play is a timely piece given the current political climate of our country and the world. It is a statement and a reminder for artists to use their gifts to stand up for truth and justice.
It is 1938 and Spain is in the midst of a civil war with World War I on the horizon. Carmela and Paulino are two wandering vaudeville performers who gets caught by the Fascists and are forced to perform a rewritten cabaret glorifying the Fascists. Paulino is the more practical of the two intent on getting out of the situation alive. Carmela, on the other hand, cannot in good conscience hide her disdain for the Fascists. Their disagreement is evident in their chaotic and unsynchronized performances with Paulino constantly needing to amend what Carmela has said. Ultimately Carmela’s words and actions cause her demise.
The play begins with Paulino in flashback after the death of Carmela. It is his way of processing the events of their lives together as life and artistic partners. It asks the questions, “What is the duty of the artist in times of oppression?” and “In these times, what is more important, preservation of life or truth?” The current version of the play has great intentions and plays with big ideas, but it falls short of engaging the audience with these ideas.
Ay Carmela! is a commendable piece of work, especially for a nascent community theatre group in an area where Latino representation in the theatrical arts is scarce. Given their mere six years of existence, it is encouraging to see their list of past productions. To see their current and past projects, check out their website at www.latinotheatreprojects.org.