Las Garcia - BEYOND ENCORE

solo performance · ortegart/lok's angeles productions · Ages 16+ · United States of America

one person show world premiere
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Review by MORNA MURPHY MARTELL

June 09, 2016

What I liked

In 1965, while the U.S. was roiling in the Civil Rights battle, there was a revolution in the Dominican Republic where author-performer Gabriela Ortega’s grandmother was a fighter for Independence. As tribute to this magnificent woman she never met, Ortega takes us on a journey back in time as seen through our modern eyes. She portrays a number of women across the intervening 50 plus years to demonstrate the fear, the courage, and the persistence of the women in her bloodline. Ortega is mercurial as she transforms from a stubborn child, to a worn and bent old woman, then to a stern parent, even depicting her grandfather who died in the Revolution. We are whipped across generations by this beautiful, dynamic young woman, even as we are caressed by her singing. A very moving play.

What I didn't like

I was often confused by the transitions and not sure where we were – in the U.S. or the Dominican Republic – and which woman was being portrayed.

My overall impression

History is brought to life as the beautiful Gabriela portrays members of her family who fought against tyranny.

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