New World-Premiere Play ‘Derecho’ Debuts at La Jolla Playhouse
There’s a storm brewing at the La Jolla Playhouse, and it happens to be the new world-premiere play “Derecho.”
“Derecho” is a new comedy-drama about two Latin American sisters. Penned by playwright Noelle Viñas, it debuts at the La Jolla Playhouse this week.
The play follows two sisters, Eugenia and Mercedes. The former is a Latina who is running for political office in Virginia, while the younger latter sister is a struggling musician who rejects politics. The play explores the relationship and tension between the two sisters as a series of intense storms — or a “derecho” — bears down on their affluent Virginia neighborhood.
“Propulsive and whip-smart, Derecho confronts how traditional Latino values conflict with an ever-changing American definition of success,” the playhouse wrote of the play. “Will the storm wipe out their relationship and derail Eugenia’s campaign, or will the rains provide a fresh start?”
Eugenia is played by actor Ashley Alvarez, while Mercedes is played by Caro Guzmán. It is directed by Delicia Turner Sonnenberg, known for her previous play “The Garden.”
First look previews for “Derecho” at the La Jolla Playhouse begin on Tuesday, July 23. Opening night for the play is Sunday, July 28, but you’ll have until Aug. 18 to catch it at the theatre.
To buy tickets or for more information, visit the La Jolla Playhouse website. For more things to do, check out our guide to entertainment in La Jolla.
Media credit: Banner image courtesy of lajollaplayhouse.org
Mike Peterson is a writer, editor, and strategist based in San Diego. When he’s not writing and editing the La Jolla news, you can often find him practicing yoga, rock climbing, or exploring the outdoors with his wife and dog.
