By Yani Perez . . .
Quince—written and co-created by Camilo Quiroz-Vázquez; directed and co-created by Ellpetha Tsivicos—is a lively, interactive birthday party, a feel-good show that is worth the trip to Bushwick.
Quiroz-Vázquez and Tsivicos create a fun-loving world with costumes, dancing, and a unique set. The audience witnesses the coming-of-age birthday party for Cindy (Sara Gutierrez). This birthday celebration is a quinceañera, celebrated by most Latinx families. It is a tradition that takes place when a young lady turns fifteen, similar to the American version of a sweet sixteen. Part of the festivities includes a barrage of traditional must-haves for such a celebrated event. Quiroz-Vázquez and Tsivicos made sure to include many of these essentials in the production, some of which include the poofy dresses, the first dance tradition and a heavy family presence (played by the audience).
Cindy and her mom, Maria (Brenda Flores), are not only preparing for the quinceañera but for numerous changes that will play out during the performance. Although the party represents a rite of passage into womanhood for Cindy, it also represents her learning to voice her beliefs and embrace her identity, as she learns of self-acceptance and the importance of family. Gutierrez delivers a vivid and energetic performance, which makes the journey engaging and enjoyable. Her mother, Maria (Flores), also transforms. She learns to forgive her past and accept her daughter so they can build a happy future. Flores is convincing and powerful. Bravo!
As Cindy figures out how to make amends with her mom while maneuvering her newly declared queer identity, she is not alone. She has her confidants by her side. Her uncle, Salomon (an empathic and humorous José Pérez) and her priest, Father Joaquin (an engaging Camilo Quiroz-Vázquez) are her pillars. She leans on them for comfort and guidance. She may not always understand their advice, but respects and values their opinions. Quince is refreshing in that Cindy is portrayed as a young lady who values family, her church, and her elders. She seeks help and solace from adults, leading to a closer relationship with them. The message here is warm and comforting: young people need to know they are not alone.
The set design by Tanya Orellana, lighting by Mextly Couzin, costumes by Scarlet Moreno, and masks by Camilo Quiroz-Vázquez, Zoë Batson, and Courtney Escoto are superb. The set is arranged like a party and reminiscent of many traditional quinceañeras, capturing the flair and authentic flavor of a Latinx party. The salon-style room was filled with beautifully decorated tables with flowers and candy, while glittering streamers hung from the ceiling in fantastic festivity. These details bring out the essence and value of how much time and care is dedicated to planning an event of this caliber. To top it all off, Quince incorporates a live band. The musicians—Marilyn Castillo (vocalist), Andrés Fonseca (percussion), Juan Ospina (bass), and Sebastian Angel (guitar)—are excellent. They add to the dynamism of the production. All of these elements work in unison to paint a picture of this beautiful cultural experience in which audiences can participate and have a festive time.
Quince is a must-see for the season. A wonderful way to start the summer with a bang . . . and a party, and glitter and music and dancing . . .
Quince. Through June 19 at the Bushwick Starr (419 Eldert Street, at Wyckoff; Brooklyn, NY). www.thebushwickstarr.org
Photos: Maria Baranova
Lead Photo: Anabel Lugones De León, Sara Gutierrez, Talisa Velázquez in QUINCE
