Review:THE BUTTERFLY’S EVIL SPELL makes a century-long return at Theatre Three

THE BUTTERFLY’S EVIL SPELL

Written by Federico Garcia Lorca

Translated & Adapted by Dante Flores

Directed by Danielle Georgiou, PH.D.

Music Direction & Composition by Danny Anchondo Jr.

Produced by Theatre Three, Dallas

Reviewed by Glynda Welch

Crystal dew drops and tiny disco-ball stars hover over the grassy insect community where Roach Boy (Omar Padilla) is mesmerized by Butterfly (Natalie Young) much to the chagrin of his mother, Dona (Leslie Marie Collins) and his would-be bride Silvia (Bethany Mejorado). A discarded auto license plate, a ladder made of wooden matchsticks, a What-a-Burger spicy ketchup bed, tall brightly colored flowers, and a tower home fashioned from a paper drink cup complete the whimsical set designed by T3’s artistic director Jeffrey Schmidt. Dante Flores, who has translated and adapted The Butterfly’s Evil Spell from Federico Garcia Lorca’s 1920 symbolist play, has reset the location to a roadside somewhere in South Texas. Lorca’s original play was considered a failure, receiving complaints from audience members and critics alike, for its negative themes, surrounding love and death. Its production was short-lived, being only four performances in length. Nonetheless, The Butterfly’s Evil Spell is an interesting juxtaposition of fairytale and gritty social commentary. Unrequited love, damaged love, and unattainable relationships collide and lead only to failure and death.

Padilla’s Roach Boy is an earnest young poet, yearning for the beautiful but wounded butterfly. Young’s Butterfly is an ethereal beauty, blithely unaware of and uninterested in Roach Boy. She is especially fascinating to watch when manipulating her beautiful broken wings in a dance sequence choreographed by Ani Vera. Silvia (Bethany Mejorado) bounces with life in her pursuit of Roach Boy. Dona (Collins) has been abandoned by Roach Boy’s father and her performance embodies the fatigue and resignation of single parenting. Witch, played by Bradley Campbell, serves as mentor and advisor to Dona. The antagonist Scorpion is played masterfully by Shawn Gann. Gann also appears as Silvia’s mother Mrs. Orgullosa in addition to other roles. His skill in differentiating each subsequent role was essential to guiding the audience through the story. Except for Padilla, all the actors played multiple characters. Ensemble cast members Elizabeth Evans and Rudy Lopez were also featured in multiple roles.

While serious and thought-provoking The Butterfly’s Evil Spell also featured some light-hearted moments. A mean-girls style attack on love struck Silvia was funny, as was Silvia’s moment to get back at them. A community committee presentation reminiscent of a homeowner association power trip generated giggles.

Aaron Patrick DeClerk designed the costumes. The butterfly dress with broken wings, and Silvia’s colorful ensemble were especially noteworthy. Lighting designer is Ryan Burkle. The crystal dewdrops descending on the insect community early in the morning were mesmerizing.

The Butterfly’s Evil Spell continues through April 30^th at Theatre Three. Get your tickets through the website, theatre3dallas.com or by calling the box office at 214-871-3300 extension 1.

Experience Live Theater!

Glynda Welch

Audience Rating: PG-13

Accessible Seating: Available

Hearing Devices: Not Available

Sensory Friendly Performances: Light reflection from the crystals and disco balls might be a problem for someone light sensitive.

Production Sound Level: Comfortable sound level

Noises or Visuals to Prepare For: Light reflection, see above

Running Time: Just under 2 hours including 15 minute intermission.