Six theatrical productions are running this weekend in Santo Domingo and Santiago, covering everything from the hidden world of Dominican nightclubs to Alzheimer's disease, political satire and a children's musical.
The lineup spans veteran companies and independent productions, with shows split between the National Theatre and other venues in the capital and the Gran Teatro del Cibao in Santiago.
Mansión Herminia explores Santo Domingo's nightlife
"Mansión Herminia," staged by Orestíada Teatro, is inspired by one of Santo Domingo's legendary nightclubs and immerses audiences in a world of power, desire, politics and survival. Written by César Sánchez Veras and directed by Orestes Amador, the production blends music, dance and cabaret aesthetics to follow a young woman from Nagua who makes her way into the nightlife scene until she becomes master of her own fate.
The cast of nine includes Lissette Jiménez, Gabo Alcántara and Michelle Cruz. The production is dedicated to the memory of actor Stuart Ortiz.
It runs Friday, Saturday and Sunday at 8:30 p.m. in the Sala Ravelo of the National Theatre, with tickets available through boleteria.com.do.
Paradiso reflects on old age and friendship
Set in a nursing home, "Paradiso" is directed by Jean Villanueva and Rosa Aurora and invites audiences to reflect on loneliness, time and friendship. The story opens at the wake of one of the residents, which sets off situations full of humor, nostalgia and moving moments among the group of friends.
Produced by Panda Rosa, it stars Laura Leclerc, Gracielina Olivero, Frank Ceara and Milton Cordero, known as "Lechuga," among a large cast. Part of the proceeds will go to the Fundación Jompéame.
Performances are Friday and Saturday at 8:30 p.m. and Sunday at 7:00 p.m. in the Sala Manuel Rueda of the National Theatre, with tickets sold through Uepatickets.
Perdida Mente tackles Alzheimer's in Santiago
"Perdida Mente," an acclaimed Argentine dramatic comedy by Mariela Asensio and José María Muscari, makes its Dominican debut under the direction of Carlos Espinal. The play addresses cognitive decline and Alzheimer's disease through the story of a judge who gathers the women of her life together after noticing her mind is failing, triggering unforgettable family revelations.
The female-led cast includes Cecilia García, Olga Bucarelli, Karina Noble, Pachy Méndez and Laura Rivera.
It plays Friday, September 4, and Saturday, September 5, at 8:00 p.m. in the Sala Julio Alberto Hernández of the Gran Teatro del Cibao, Santiago's main performing arts venue, with tickets through Uepatickets.
El Capitán Control brings a musical for the whole family
Based on a new story by Anya Damirón, this colorful musical is designed as an interactive, educational experience for children and adults alike. Directed by Joyce Roy with original music by Bonnet, it follows characters who resolve their conflicts through collaboration and empathy as they face off against the villain Capitán Huracán.
The show is led by Kenny Grullón and Tony Almont alongside a cast of 18 actors, with choreography by Valentina Grillo.
Performances are Saturday and Sunday at 11:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. in the Sala Carlos Piantini of the National Theatre, with tickets available through Uepatickets and CCN.
Bendito Gordo marks Teatro Guloya's 35th anniversary
Teatro Guloya is marking 35 years in existence with the premiere of "Bendito Gordo," a biting satire that strips bare and mocks the contradictions of everyday life. Written and directed by Claudio Rivera, the comedy follows "El Gordo," a disreputable character who chases success after being named a ministerial assistant. Believing himself protected by the Divino Niño de Atocha, he runs into grotesque situations as he tries to cope with his guilt.
The cast includes Gerardo "el Cuervo" Mercedes, a longtime figure in Dominican cinema, along with Luinis Olaverría and Viena González.
It runs Fridays and Saturdays at 8:30 p.m. and Sundays at 6:30 p.m. in the Sala Otto Coro in the Colonial City, with tickets through Teatro Guloya.
Por los secretos extends its sold-out run
After multiple sold-out performances since its premiere, "Por los secretos" has extended its season through Sunday, September 6, by popular demand. Written and directed by Ismael Almonte, the new run includes the debuts of Cheddy García, Heidy Brown, Héctor Adriel and Mary Gaby Aguilera.
Produced by S28 Producciones, the play explores three stories, "Malas madres," "El amor es una droga" and "Infiel por una causa," touching on love, guilt, identity, motherhood, gender violence and relationships, exposing truths that are often left unspoken.
It plays from Friday to Sunday, between 8:00 p.m. and 10:00 p.m., at Microteatro Santo Domingo, with tickets through Microteatro SD.
