By Mindy Pedlar
Cabrillo Stage’s production of In the Heights is a joy to behold. It begins with a panoramic view of New York’s Washington Heights neighborhood. It’s early morning, and we are greeted by Usnavi, owner of the corner bodega. He acts as a kind of master of ceremonies throughout the show, introducing himself and the inhabitants of this close-knit Spanish-speaking community to the audience.
Adonay Gonzales shows off his Hip Hip moves during a scene from In the Heights at Cabrillo Stage in Aptos. • Photo Credit: Bari Lee
Edie Flores plays Usnavi with sincerity and charm. As the morning unfolds, he introduces the beloved Abuela Claudia, played with rich vocal prowess and a compassionate heart by Lori Rivera. Spontaneously the number bursts with joyous dance moves skillfully choreographed by Chris “Boogy” Marcos. The 13-piece band, under the leadership of Musical Director/Conductor Michael J. McGushin, adds their brilliant musical spark and the audience is uplifted by the exuberance of the cast as they sing, dance and welcome us with the title song.
Enter Nina Rosario, played by the winsome and musically gifted Sofia Rosas. Nina is an achiever and a shining light of hope in the community. Her scholastic endeavors were rewarded with a scholarship to Stanford University.
While working to make ends meet, her grades fell, and she lost her scholarship. She returns home unsure of how to break the news to her parents and feeling she has let everyone down. To calm herself she sings one of the show’s most beautiful songs, “Breathe.” Sofia’s passionate rendition is not to be missed.
Brissa Nathalie Ibarra and Miguel Reyna convincingly play Nina’s proud, doting parents. They own Rosario’s Car Service where her childhood friend Benny works. Benny, earnestly played by Trevor Miller with heart and humor, adores Nina and their friendship blossoms.
A dramatic view of Sofia Rosas, who plays Nina, and Trevor Miller, who plays Benny, lead roles at Cabrillo Stage’s In the Heights. • Photo Credit: Shmuel Thaler
Meanwhile Usnavi’s crush Vanessa, exquisitely played by Karriyma Pekary, is desperately trying to get out of a toxic home life by moving out of the barrio. She is employed by the Beauty Salon owner Daniela, played with great comedic timing by Melissa Martinez. They are joined by Alexis Williams as Carla, and this trio delights us as they sing the comic “No Me Diga” — which means “no kidding.”
Usnavi finally connects with Vanessa with help from his young cousin, Sonny, artfully played by Michael Navarro who is hilarious in the role. Every move he makes is well thought out and perfectly executed.
Ivan Dario Vielma delivers an outstanding performance as Piragua Guy, singing, dancing and selling shaved ice treats to the community. Hats off to the ensemble that enlivens every scene with energy and purpose. Special mention to Kiran Heine, a delightful Graffiti Pete, and ensemble member Adonay Gonzales for making their challenging Hip Hop moves seem effortless.
The impressive set, designed by Scott Boynton, is perfect in every detail. The production is further enhanced by Richard Fong’s expert lighting design. Veteran Cabrillo Stage designers Maria Crush, costumes, Skyler Kirby, sound, and Natalie Silva, properties master, add their touch of magic, and under the helm of Stage Manager Alina Goodman, this fabulous show comes to life!
Artistic Director Andrea Hart chose Lin-Manuel Miranda’s “In the Heights” this season “because of the beautiful and profound ways it looks at a particular community.” She put together the creative team necessary for this particular show, which included Hip Hop specialist RJ Wayne whose knowledge and coaching skills added to the authenticity of each actor’s performance.
Kudos to Estrella Esparza-Johnson who clearly put her heart and soul into directing this piece. Witness the passion, strength, authenticity and joy shine forth in this amazing musical, now playing at the Crocker Theater on the Cabrillo College campus, 6500 Soquel Drive in Aptos.
•••
Tickets range from $25 – $60 at www.cabrillostage.com/tickets.
Box Office is open for phone and walk-up sales Thursdays – Saturdays 12pm – 6pm andone1 hour prior to each performance or by phone at 831-479-6154.
Performances now through Aug. 4, Thursday, Friday, Saturday at 7:30 pm, Sundays at 2 pm, special matinee performance Saturday, Aug. 3.
TOP PHOTO: Chris Salem dances with Karriyma Pekary, who plays Vanessa. In the back are Edie Flores, who plays Usnavi, Ivan Dario Vielma, who plays Piragua Guy, and Trevor Miller, who plays Benny. • Photo Credit: Bari Lee