Asolo Rep claims its version of Man of La Mancha is modern and different from the original play and musical, set in Spain at the time of the Inquisition. It’s still structurally and meaningfully a play within a play about a hero who writes his dream about a character who pursues an “impossible” one. Both author Cervantes and his idealistic—if quite unrealistic— “quester” Don Quixote have to convert their greedy fellow prisoners so that they supplement the lead’s dramatic roles rather than take his possessions or power.
Mauricio Martinez perfectly fits the dual lead role. His singing of delusional Quixote’s “The Impossible Dream” deservedly brought opening night audience members spontaneously to their feet to applaud. I’ve never heard better. He is equally good proclaiming “I Am I, Don Quixote.”
As raunchy tavern gal Aldonza, the Don’s idealized lady Dulcinea, Janely Rodriguez scores with “What Does He Want of Me?” and songs titled with each of her names. Her soprano is sure and strong enough not to need as much sound amplification as she gets.
Suitable as Quixote’s squire and with his movement as his riding partner, Aaron De Jesus generally underplays Sancho Panza. He does, however, do emphatically the musical declaration “I Like Him,” a cute song.
Among the supporting-cast singers, Brian Kim McCormick is especially authoritative as The Padre. C. Mingo Long makes a memorable Innkeeper and, especially, Governor. Most of the supporting cast handle dual roles in both “plays” well.
Florescent lights illuminate the modern set with white walls and a stairway leading to…..? Chilly and chilling. Like daytime and darker scenes with details of a novel but improvised props (such as suitcases for horses to ride), the Don’s story unfolds with contrasting persistent activity. Everything outside of the fiction seems realistic, even though much is in small scenes and often suggestive. Asolo Rep’s production people excel again!
Other Asolo Rep strengths on view are the variety of appropriate costumes and hairstyles as well as puppets and projections. It’s also a treat to have a whole orchestra in the pit once again. What good, appropriate music they make!
