In Teatro Vista and Victory Gardens’ “A Park in Our House, ” a young boy (Bubba Weiler) struggles to regain his voice after a traumatic loss. It’s an apt metaphor for Cubans living under Castro’s regime, who endure daily deprivation in a society warped by Communism. Set in the 1970s, a Cuban family plays host to a beleaguered Russian botanist as part of an international exchange program. His arrival ignites sparks of fantasy in the household as family members acknowledge their desires: Pilar (Marcella Munoz) longs to see Russia; Fifo (Joe Minoso) yearns to reclaim his photography career; Hilario (Gustavo Mellado) schemes to leave his stifling ministry job and Ofelina (Charin Alvarez) dreams of the love she and Hilario once shared. The cast successfully voices the love that sustains a family adrift in an oppressive system. “A Park in Our House” is a sweet, eloquent look at longing and dreams denied. (Lisa Buscani)
At the Victory Gardens Biograph Theater, 2433 N. Lincoln Ave, (773)871-3000. This production is now closed.
Close Reading: A Review of The Seldoms' Toolbox @ Twenty at Hyde Park Art Center Carrie Hanson, along with company members Damon Green, Dee Alba and Sarah Gonsiorowski developed dances inspired by the creative practices of sculptor Edra Soto, sound artist Sadie Woods, painter Jackie Kazarian and fiber artist Jacqueline Surdell. Each dancer interviewed and studied the studio practice of their partner.
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