The musical Steel Butterflies, by Wadys Jáquez and Pablo García, is one of the most important artistic adventures I have seen in the Dominican Republic in two decades.
Important for several reasons: first of all, the fact that it is an absolutely Dominican and original musical. Secondly, for addressing an aspect of Dominican history to which it provides a broader and more comprehensive vision. Thirdly, for its aesthetic result.
I am attracted to this musical by the fact that the story of 60 years ago, precisely, is treated by today’s young people and from the musical point of view that is familiar to them: rap, salsa, etc.
The most interesting thing, however, is the visual treatment of what is narrated on stage, the agility for changes in the elements of the scenery. Likewise, the lighting design, which allows the use of backlights in a very suggestive way, for example, at the beginning of the first scene.
The original music is as rich in the diversity of rhythms as it is clean in its instrumental execution. Safe -almost always- in the voices of a capable cast, full of talents. Not just the acquaintances, but the new faces.
Dedé Mirabal in Steel Butterflies
Adalgisa Pantaleón obviously stands out as Dedé Mirabal, Nashla Bogaert as Minerva Mirabal, Judith Rodríguez in the role of Sina Cabral.
In addition to Hony Estrella as Patria and Coral González in the role of María Teresa Mirabal, as well as Ana Rivas as Mama Chea.
Among the actors, Frank Geara as Trujillo is one of the most organic, in a conformation of the character that leaves little of himself not only on the surface.
Gnomish like Johnny Abes, as well as Manolo Tavares, are not only convincing, but efficient.
From my point of view, the weakest scene in the entire play is the one that begins in the second part, after the break. It is the one where Patria, Manolo and other sisters determine that they are going to create the June 19 movement. Another lazy one is when Minerva faces other women. This scene is very Manichean, because in it they end up embracing the Dominican flag.
Another aspect, are the ends of newspapers, with fists to the sky.
Outside of that, in the musical, the Dominican Republic is history. And you have to tell it.
It was moving, after the end of the applause and thanks, the surprise of Sina Cabral, the only fighter alive, in person, with a message that she read, after a big hug that she and Judith gave each other.
