Theatre Review: Valor, Agravio, Mujer Shows Women’s Empowerment Starts With Self
Valor, Agravio, Y Mujer is currently playing at Repertorio Espanol, in celebration of one of the longest running theatre in New York, along with being the only one dedicated to Latinx based plays/ playwrights. It seems befitting that in homage to its 50 years, the theatre would perform a classic comedy written by one of the first female playwrights of Spain: Ana Caro. After all, those that dare to go against “normatives” should pay homage to others whom have done the same.
Valor Agravio Y Mujer is a quiet but uproarious wonder. For one, it is a comment against the female-binding customs of 17th century Spain, of which the bedazzling costumes of Leni Mendez makes the play a worthy watch/ time warp. The costuming is highly important in transforming the audience into Caro’s world and leaving the lighting of Lucrecia Briseno to be a literal lighting guide to the emotional hangups of this play. Yet, the minimalistic set of the production does well to bring focus on the heavy material that is Valor, Agravio, y Mujer. Let’s be honest; we no longer “speaketh” like Shakespeare. Yet, each actor shines in capturing the language and demeanor of this “backwards” time to show that women were struggling but empowering themselves back then, as well. For this, Zulema Clares shines as Leonor by giving her an unwinding strength that makes you pull for her as she outwits the men that cross her path and enlivens the women whom believe they have none.
What is fascinating about Valor, Agravio, Y Mujer is that it feeds the many stigmas and tropes we have of women today, while, simultaneously crushing them. Leonor is NOT going to be duped by the sniveling, but charming “Don Juan”; played by Luis Carlose De La Lombana like the con-man you both love to hate and hate to love. From 17th century Spain to 21st century America, women are pushed and painted to be “dainty”, and are told that silently accepting the cruelties and manipulations of men is a sign of being a “good woman”. Yet, it is the moments with Leonor, Maria Cotto’s Lisarda, and the meek Estela that turns this play into a tender display of women backing women. Soraya Padrao plays Estela with a delicacy that leaves her prey to the “Don Juans” of the world unto Leonor, dressed as Leonardo, helps guide her to her self-worth. Clares and Padrao’s scenes together play for laughs but also the warming beauty of one woman telling another she is beautiful, and both receiving the greatness of that message. It was a surprising effect when seen, and gave the play a regality that showed even comedies can have serious wisdom.
Don’t underestimate women can be a core message fro Valor Agravio Mujer, but Director Leyma Lopez ups “said message” to be: Do not underestimate yourself! Leonor begins the play broken and played, but ends valiant and victorious. All great stories/ heroines begin at their lowest because it is from their that you will learn your highest capacities. A broken heart led her to see her intelligence, courage, and self-esteem, to which Mrs. Lopez assures Ana Caro’s masterpiece becomes a staple for how women’s empowerment is vitally derived from self-empowerment. For More Information On Valor, Agravio,y Mujer Click Here. It is 100 minutes long with no imtermission. It is playing until May 11 2018, of which the Repertorio Espanol is located 138 East 27th St. New York, NY 10016. MOST IMPORTANTLY! Repertorio Espanol now has translators, which mean ANYONE can enjoy the show equally!
