Subtext Studio Theatre Company recently premiered Omar Vicente Fernandez’s play, Que Te Vaya Bien, as part of the seventh edition of Destinos: Chicago International Latino Theater Festival. The play features actors Nelson A. Rodriguez and Adriel Irizarry, who previously worked together in another production. In Que Te Vaya Bien, Rodriguez and Irizarry portray a father and son duo who must navigate their troubled relationship.
The storyline of Que Te Vaya Bien revolves around Elias, played by Irizarry, who is a stressed-out attorney for the Cook County DA’s Office. His wife informs him of her pregnancy at a time when their relationship is strained. Elias agrees to meet his father, Mario, portrayed by Rodriguez, at a Cubs game. Without giving away any spoilers, the play delves into the unspoken aspects of their relationship, addressing regret, anger, mixed emotions, and the fear of repeating past mistakes.
The play is a poignant exploration of familial dynamics and the weight of unsaid words. Irizarry’s intense performance conveys the internal struggles of his character, while Rodriguez brings a devil-may-care attitude to his role. Director Octavio Montes De Oca and sound designer Gina Montalvo skillfully create an atmosphere of isolation and hyperreality, drawing the audience into the emotional depth of the story. Que Te Vaya Bien is a thought-provoking piece that demands the audience’s full attention.
In addition to Que Te Vaya Bien, Subtext Studio Theatre Company has been showcasing a range of productions as part of Destinos festival, offering a diverse array of Latino theater experiences to the Chicago audience. The festival serves as a platform for talented Latino artists to share their stories and showcase their craft. From explorations of immigration experiences to reimagined classics like Hamlet, Destinos offers a rich tapestry of narratives that resonate with audiences.
The success of Que Te Vaya Bien underscores the vibrant theater scene in Chicago and the importance of supporting local productions. The play’s themes of family, communication, and legacy are universal, making it a compelling piece for theater enthusiasts of all backgrounds. As Subtext Studio Theatre continues to bring engaging and thought-provoking works to the stage, audiences can look forward to more captivating performances that challenge and inspire.
