A Gem, discovered—in Fort Worth

Ben and I needed a cultural "fix" so it was with great anticipation that we drove into Fort Worth on Sunday afternoon to attend Rose Marine Theater bilingual performance of A Midsummer Night's Dream. Artes de la Rosa of Fort Worth is the non-profit organization that manages the Rose Marine Theatre, Fort Worth’s only Hispanic theatre company, Teatro de la Rosa.

We had read about the performance in the Fort Worth Star-Telegram a couple of weeks ago and were intrigued by the idea of a bilingual production of Shakespeare’s classic comedy—how do you translate iambic pentameter? How in the world do you pull off setting the story in Vera Cruz? Ballet Folklorico? We decided it was just ambitious enough to make it interesting.

We arrived early, found on-street parking near the theatre, and made our way to the ticket office. In line ahead of us were many families with young children, some older couples, a few trendy young professionals, and some neighborhood teens—a pretty good mix for a Sunday afternoon matinee.

The play did not disappoint. The set was simple, rustic, and very Vera Cruz. The backdrop was a gorgeous painting of a moon rising over the sea (which revived our romantic memories of Mexican vacations). While we waited for the curtain to rise, we listened to selections by Los Lobos and other music to set the tropical mood.

The opening was a little slow, but the actors eventually found their tempo, aided by the perfect comic timing of Gale Nelson (Helena) and the deadpan silliness of Kristi Ramos Tolar (Hermia). Ramiro Munguia’s Oberon, with his ferocious stage presence, brought to life the legendary Jaguar Warrior of the Aztecs. Ronald Fernandez, Jr. was obviously having fun with his interpretation of Puck, fun which transferred to the audience—his performance garnered the most enthusiastic responses from the crowd, especially the children.

Rob Bosquez, as Bottom, was hilarious. First, as an overzealous actor wanting to play every role in the fisherman’s theatre; then as a happy Ass, transformed by the jealous scheming of Oberon, adoringly tended to by the Fairy Queen and her servants.

Some other actors of note: Alex MacKenzie’s roar had the audience in stitches. Sarah Elizondo was a convincing Titiana, regal and commanding. And Angel Bueno was funny as Thisby—any time you put a big guy with facial hair in a dress, you’re going to get some laughs. Stella Romero as Elena gets the prize for the best delivery of Shakespearean prose; unfortunately, she didn't have that many lines to read, but she should workshop the other performers to improve their Shakespeare.
Ballet Folklorico Azteca's dancing was great. Our only complaint: there was too little of it. I could name at least three other scenes in the play that could incorporate dance scenes.

During the 15 minute intermission, audience members were treated to a gallery show of Celia Cortez’s work entitled “Words, Music and Lyrics.” My favorite was a piece which incorporated musical notes and a keyboard. I was surprised to learn it was called “Benny and the Jets."
The Rose Marine Theatre in north Fort Worth is truly a gem. At the end of the performance I felt as if I’d discovered some rare, precious stone. Unfortunately, this was the last performance of A Midsummer Night's Dream this season, but there will be many other opportunities to see this theatre company in action. I look forward to future performances and am glad to have a reason to drive into Fort Worth more often. I am especially looking forward to a screening of Before Night Falls with Javier Bardem in January, and Noche de Amor flamenco dancing in February. In March, I plan to see Grupo Pakal give insight into the sacred ceremonies, ancient rituals, and festive dances of the Mayan Culture. There are too many others to list, so take the time to check out the company's calendar.

Finally, because Teatro de la Rosa is a non-profit, I want to remind everyone of the cultural importance of community theatre, particularly Chicano community theatre. Please visit their website, click around, and if you’re looking for a charity this holiday season, consider making a donate. This year, the Amon Carter Foundation is making matching grants for every gift you make to the organization. There is no better time.