Teatro ECAS Premieres Modern Adaptation of La Dama Boba

Categories: Events/What's HappeningNewsTheater

Performers bring a contemporary twist to Lope de Vega's La Dama Boba at Teatro ECAS in Providence.

News Summary

Teatro ECAS in Providence presents the regional premiere of Jorge Fullana’s adaptation of Lope de Vega’s classic play ‘La Dama Boba.’ Running from May 15 to May 25, this modernized version features updated themes and a gender-swapped narrative while condensing the original into a 90-minute performance. With clever portrayals of its characters and a mix of contemporary elements, it promises to engage today’s audience while retaining the essence of classical storytelling.

Providence, Rhode Island: Teatro ECAS Premieres Modern Adaptation of Lope de Vega’s La Dama Boba

Teatro ECAS in Providence, Rhode Island, is presenting the regional premiere of Jorge Fullana’s adaptation of the classic play La Dama Boba (“A Woman of Little Sense”), originally penned by renowned Spanish playwright Lope de Vega in 1613. The production runs from May 15 through May 25 and features contemporary themes relevant to today’s audiences, including the portrayal of femininity and strategy within a male-dominated society.

This adaptation focuses on the story of two sisters, Nise and Finea, who navigate societal expectations and romantic pursuits. Nise is depicted as clever and resourceful while Finea is characterized as somewhat foolish. In a significant twist, the wealthy father figure, traditionally a male character named Don Octavio, has been transformed into a mother named Octavia, played by Miosotis Ihelefeld. The narrative follows Nise, who is poised to marry the impoverished poet Laurencio, portrayed by Jordan Cardona, while Finea attracts the attention of the educated caballero Liceo, played by Wiston Delgado.

A crucial aspect of the play involves the disparity in dowries between the sisters, which plays a significant role in their respective marriage prospects. Fullana’s adaptation condenses the original three-act structure and lengthy runtime into a streamlined, one-act performance lasting approximately 90 minutes. The production features only five actors, with each performer taking on two distinct roles, minimizing the cast while maximizing the impact of the narrative.

Teatro ECAS’ adaptation of La Dama Boba also incorporates contemporary elements to resonate with modern audiences. The production includes updated clothing styles, and projections created by Milton Cordero augment the storytelling experience. Notably, some of Lope de Vega’s lyrical dialogue has been reimagined as rap and spoken word, thus bridging the gap between classical literature and modern performance art. This creative choice has been made in recognition of the challenges faced in making older material engaging for current viewers, according to theater reviewer Bob Abelman.

Historically, La Dama Boba has faced criticism for its perceived haste in composition and lack of depth when compared to the works of other literary giants, such as Miguel de Cervantes. Nonetheless, the adaptation by Fullana seeks to enhance the play’s thematic relevance while acknowledging some of the original’s abrupt plot points and resolutions that still persist in the performance.

One of the more humorous elements of the production is the comedic exploration of gender roles, particularly with male actors portraying the roles of the serving women, Clara and Celia. This subversion of traditional casting expectations adds another layer of entertainment and prompts viewers to reflect on societal norms.

La Dama Boba at Teatro ECAS promises an engaging experience for theatergoers, blending classic storytelling with modern sensibilities. Ticket prices range from $35 to $55, plus applicable fees. The venue is located at 679 Valley St., Providence, R.I., welcoming audiences who are eager to witness this innovative reimagining of a historical play.