THE DUENDE DISTINCTION
Sponsored by The Vagrancy
Description
The Vagrancy produces work with that ineffable something, duende. A duende is a fairy- or goblin-like mythological creature from Iberian, Latin American and Filipino folklore. As Federico Garcia Lorca uses the term, it equates the fairy to a realm of being that has a heightened state of emotion, expression, and authenticity. It’s the spirit of evocation, it’s what gives you chills when you listen to a beautiful piece of music.
Qualifications
Duende has four main characteristics: irrationality, earthiness, a heightened awareness of death, and a dash of the diabolical. Any production, actor, director, playwright or designer may qualify for the Duende Distinction. We are looking for work that has soul above all and the ability to move the human spirit.
Methodology
We have a committee of 15 company members who search for the winner of The Duende Distinction by seeing plays they think may qualify. Any member can nominate any actor, designer, production, etc for the award. The 4-5 productions with the most nominations with be official nominees. Caitlin Hart, Artistic Director of The Vagrancy and head of TDD committee will see all the nominated productions and choose the one that best qualifies. Artist Zach Brown will also see this production to create the award.
Reward
An original acrylic painting on canvas by artist Zach Brown – inspired by the production.
