RE: A Christmas Carol, adapted by Dave Steakley for the Zach Theatre (letter to the editor from Rupert Reyes of Teatro Vivo)

Published as a letter to the editor, December 17, 2014:

 



Re: Dec. 14 article, “Diverse ‘Carol’ creation falls flat.”

First, I have not attended this play and am writing in response to the article and the letters that appeared in the paper. This is not the first time that Zach Theatre has failed to do the necessary research or bring in the necessary resources (“Jesus Christ Superestrella”) to overcome their lack of understanding of the Latino community. Why would Jeanne Claire van Ryzin focus on the racial stereotypes? This is the premiere Austin theater, with millions in resources to be able to get it right to better serve the community at large and create more insight and understanding of the different cultures here in Austin. Presenting stereotypes creates obstacles to communication that could help bring our communities together. There are many scholars, excellent Latino playwrights and producers who get it right with their performances here in Austin. They are not hiding. Further, to say that his Latino friends acted as consultants and that actors had a hand in the script is a weak argument. What background do the friends bring to the stage, and the actors are the last element added to a play production. They are not willing to contradict the director for fear of being called “difficult” and not be cast in future shows. Zach has collaborated in the past with Latino groups to bring excellent experiences with accurate portrayals for all audiences. I ask that they be more open to using these resources in the future.

RUPERT REYES, ARTISTIC DIRECTOR, TEATRO VIVO, AUSTIN