←Recommendations of El Yunque in English

A startlingly simple and beautiful play that delves into the devastation that comes after a natural disaster (in this case, a hurricane in Puerto Rico). Diaz-Marcano finds the humanity that is often forgotten in these situations and creates a funny and touching tale of loss and hope.

A terrific and timely solo play set after the devastating hurricane in Puerto Rico. I love stage directions that are fun to read and that also convey character in a few choice words, and Diaz-Marcano's stage directions do all that and are just one reason why I love this unusual and moving short play.

Really a beautiful, surreal journey. "Vivid character in a surreal situation" might be my favorite genre, and Diaz-Marcano hits that nail on the head. Pedro would be a tour de force opportunity for an actor!

Really a beautiful, surreal journey. "Vivid character in a surreal situation" might be my favorite genre, and Diaz-Marcano hits that nail on the head. Pedro would be a tour de force opportunity for an actor!

A brilliantly crafted nugget of a play/monologue. Diaz-Marcano uses a wide range of linguistic tools to draw us into a situation that is contextualized by a specific and important moment, but also heart-wrenchingly universal. A great example of a clean ten minute play!

This play is nothing short of magic. There is such light and beauty and brilliance in this play. The stage directions are just as delightful as the dialogue itself. This play would be such a unique experience for anyone watching it--and the ending is pure delight. If you have not read any of Diaz-Marcano's work, now is the time to do so.

It is almost customary in Latin American literature for the fantastical and magical to be no different than a cloud during a sunny day. Nelson Diaz-Marcano carries this long tradition of Latin American literary indifference to the extraordinary by placing it in the context of a parent's love in the backdrop of natural disaster. There is no option that a parent won't exhaust when it comes to hearing their child's voice again. Diaz-Marcano demonstrates this with hilarity and elegance. The sci-fi elements grab you, but it's a father's brave efforts for Puerto Rico and his daughter that keep you reading.

A rich and engaging one-person play. Diaz-Marcano creates such a complex and lovable character in EL YUNQUE IN ENGLISH, I wanted more than anything for Pedro to get everything that he wanted. It's funny and emotionally moving, without ever becoming too sentimental, while also addressing the huge catastrophe the American government continues to ignore in Puerto Rico. I'd love to see this short performed across the country.

When a hurricane brings the hammer down hard on “the anvil,” and Pedro has exhausted all other options, he scales the heights of the famous rainforest in search of an alien for help. He wants to believe so desperately in this higher power (is it an alien, his God, his government?) but it appears to ignore his pleas. The play’s endearing resolution gives us hope that Pedro and islanders like him won’t be written off as merely “junk” to be ignored. A wonderful piece of work.

Diaz-Marcano's gorgeous dialogue and deep characterization creates a perfectly imperfect world. In this scene nestled inside the devastation brought on by hurricane Maria, the writer explores heavy themes without being ham-fisted or obvious. Love the way the language slips effortlessly between English and Spanish and the way the audience is gently invited into the warmth and heartbreak. Stunning, poetical monologues rise out of this work. What a gem.