My overall impression
Fred Blanco’s piece The Stories of César Chavéz is a fascinating one-person show built around Chavéz’s first hunger strike in 1968. During his fast, he prays and has a series of visions, which include meeting his wife, the beginning of the union, the grape boycott, and his time in the fields. These visions and multiple characters are all portrayed expertly and with depth. The six years spent in development and research is evident in Blanco’s performance and monologues.
The set and lighting that Blanco chooses is effective and works well for distinguishing the characters from one another. Although some scenes feel a smidge too long, the overall play is intense and interesting. Based on the historical events surrounding this fast in California, this play would be most relevant to those interested in story of Chavéz himself.
