You may have seen them in various roles, from a soldier delivering a message to the king in Shakespeare’s plays to an elderly Italian couple in Robert E. Sherwood’s Idiot’s Delight. These supporting actors play crucial parts in bringing a playwright’s world to life on stage. The play El Brote from Argentina’s Compañía Criolla explores the lives and ambitions of these actors, focusing on a one-man show where Roberto Peloni portrays Beto, a character who begins to question his reality while sharing backstage stories and classic play lines.
The physical demands of the role require Peloni to take great care of his voice and body, treating each performance like the World Cup final. The play was developed over a year and premiered to critical acclaim, resonating with audiences on the theme of frustration and unfulfilled dreams. Compañía Criolla has brought a contemporary twist to classic plays like Cyrano de Bergerac and Romeo and Juliet, showcasing their eccentric and playful style.
Mexico’s Kraken Teatro, also making its U.S. debut at the Chicago International Latino Theater Festival with Desvenar, presents a unique take on the symbolic role of chiles in shaping Mexican identity. The play explores the chile’s significance through three representative characters: the Pachuco, the Cholo, and the Adelita. Valentina Garibay, who plays the Adelita, explains the different perspectives on Mexican culture and values portrayed in the play.
Desvenar underwent a year of development and revisions before its premiere, emphasizing the company’s commitment to experimentation and audience engagement. The play uses Mexican albur and word games to create a dialogue with spectators, challenging traditional views of the chile as a cultural symbol. Kraken Teatro looks forward to engaging with Chicago’s diverse Mexican population and other communities across the United States through their performance.
The Chicago International Latino Theater Festival offers a variety of shows and performances that highlight the rich cultural heritage and artistic talent of Latin American theater companies. From thought-provoking one-man shows to innovative explorations of cultural symbols, these productions provide audiences with a glimpse into the vibrant world of Latino theater. If you’re looking for a unique and engaging theatrical experience, be sure to check out the festival’s upcoming performances and support these talented artists.
