Debajo del Árbol de Almendras / Under the Almond Tree.

After a fascinating introduction from Founding Artistic Director, José Cheo Oliveras telling the story of how Teatro Círculo was established with the incredible support of Councilmember Margarita López (who happened to be in the audience) we were ready for the opening night performance of their latest show.

An almond tree, made up of a dry 3D skeleton with some moss attached and four tree stumps around the stage all crafted by production designer Israel Franco Müller. This was the setting that housed today’s three stories.

Mental illnesses will always be crucial subjects that concern us, and it is vital to put them on stage; and so it was. Raw, rough, literal. Perhaps we could go further, approaching these delicate topics through poetry, conventions, and theatricality, and thus achieve openness and, why not, a deeper understanding of them. Watching this play, I am reminded of my teacher and recall him saying, “We already know the butterfly has wings so you don’t need to show them.”

Very well played by the performers (César Cova, Bill Oxendine, Kiara Alejandra & Joél Isaac), a great energy and commitment from the pairs; the frenzy of an opening night could be felt. We would particularly like to highlight the second piece, for the writing and direction of Luis Caballero (who penned all three of tonight’s short stories) and for the outstanding performance by Edna Lee Figueroa. Masterful, what an actress we enjoyed on stage: calm, measured, contained, navigating the piece with exquisite finesse and leaving us wanting more and since the pieces are not directly connected, this one certainly deserves to be extended in its own right.

It was a great night offered to us by Teatro Círculo; the team always stands out for their warmth and professionalism.

Debajo del Árbol de Almendras / Under the Almond Tree runs from January 16th to 25th.

Tickets available here: http://teatrocirculo.org/tickets

Teatro Círculo is widening its “Mi casa es tu casa” program this season supporting the local and immigrant community and access to the arts by providing heavily discounted tickets and free events.

More information at https://teatrocirculo.org/links