THE HANGOVER REPORT – The Bushwick Starr’s immersive but underdeveloped QUINCE christens the company’s new playing space

Sara Gutierrez and Saige Larmer in The Bushwick Starr’s production of “Quince” by Camilo Quiroz-Vázquez and Ellpetha Tsivicos (photo by Maria Baranova).

This past week, I ventured out to Brooklyn to take in The Bushwick Starr’s production of Quince by Camilo Quiroz-Vázquez and Ellpetha Tsivicos (Ms. Tsivicos serves as the show’s director, too). The production – which is being co-presented by One Whale’s Tale in association with ¡Oye! Group – christens The Bushwick Starr’s spacious brand new playing space located just off of the Halsey Street subway station on the “L” line. Set against an explosion of cultural heritage and magic realism, the immersive play with music tells the story of Cindy, a 15-year-old girl whose coming-of-age and coming out coincide with her quinceañera.

On paper, Quince would seem to offer much to get excited over. The immersive experience features music, dance, food, and art inspired by Latin American rituals and mythology, which all sounds wonderful wrapped up in a single package. In reality, however, the production is underdeveloped, offering an unsteady mix that often times feels haphazardly thrown together. And although the idea of a gay quinceañera is an enticing one, the play’s queer themes feel insufficiently explored and fleshed out. That being said, it’s hard not to smile during the show’s upbeat conclusion (which seems inspired by the celebratory ending of the Broadway musical The Prom). Additionally, there are moments of real magic and endearing quirkiness sprinkled throughout. I just wish there were more of them.

Ms. Tsivicos’s staging is nothing if not colorful, even if the show struggles with pacing. Some of the performances are more accomplished than others (the show’s creators, Mr. Quiroz-Vázquez and Ms. Tsivicos, also appear in the production). Luckily, in the main role of Cindy, Sara Gutierrez is captivating and makes for a lovely and convincing 15-year-old. Despite my general misgivings, the audience seemed to be having a great time, especially during Cindy’s show-closing quinceañera, which comes complete with the opportunity to join the cast on the dance floor. Over the course of the evening, vivacious live music is provided by a live band and an excellent vocalist.

SOMEWHAT RECOMMENDED

QUINCE
Off-Broadway, Play
The Bushwick Starr
1 hour, 50 minutes (without an intermission)
Through June 26

Categories: Off-Broadway, Theater

Leave a Reply