Breath of Fire Latina Theater Ensemble has done some fine work over the years, while falling short of the potential I always sensed was there. I’m happy to report the Santa Ana company has finally made good on the promise with the world premiere of Cherríe Moraga’s “Digging Up the Dirt,” which runs through August 29; if you can get your hands on a ticket, I urge you to do so.
As co-directed by Moraga and actress Adelina Anthony, the complex, multi-layered “Dirt” has a highly theatrical and somewhat Felliniesque feel. The play intertwines the saga of Josefa, a murderess, with a story of lesbian romance. Ultimately, it’s a search for truth, and the truth about what drives us to live and love as we do, with a decidedly feminist bent. There were moments when I wasn’t entirely sure what it was about but frankly didn’t care—it was never less than compelling.
Anthony’s bold, striking stage presence as The Poet, the show’s ringmaster of sorts (the play takes place in her head), is perfectly balanced by Cheryl Umaña’s sensitive portrayal of her lover, Amada. Virginia Grise is effective as Josefa; Brenda Banda scores in a seriocomic turn as a 5-year-old boy, amid other roles.
What Breath of Fire lacks in resources it makes up for in passion. South Coast Rep could have done “Dirt” with a bigger budget and perhaps a little more pizazz, but could not have lavished more amour on this poetic, offbeat drama. BOF (and Moraga/Anthony’s See-what Productions) delivers it straight from el corazón, and scores a bullseye. Call 714-600-0129.
More from Jordan:
Laguna’s Pageant of Masters measures up; City of Orange shutters Mysterium
New one-woman show ‘Mulatto’ explores bi-racial marriage
Wacky webisodes for ‘Lien’ times; O-Lan Jones’ multimedia opera
Facets introduces first films of Alexander Kluge, Milos Forman to DVD
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