←Recommendations of MISFIT, AMERICA

Tautly plotted and populated with complex and vivid characters, Misfit America grabbed hold of me at the top and didn’t let go. Its depiction of the collapse of the Western-mythos resonated on both the narrative and cultural planes (as well as the literal plains). The play is also full of wit and both playful and terrifying use of theatrical devices. Drumbeats and shadow are deployed to dazzling effect. And all of this supports a moving exploration of the struggle to define family and identity for ourselves in a world loathe to allow either.

Neo-Western is a great description of this brilliant play. Like the great westerns, a collection of "misfits" have formed their own community. At the center is the triumvirate of Lucky, the solider with a heart of gold who is looking for redemption, Roberta, his significant other who is equal parts mystic, mother, and protector, and Dick, the orphan looking for answers. Opposing them is Chip and his band of neo-nazis, who threaten the uneasy peace between communities. Heartbreaking and inspiring at the same time, this magical-realism play about identity, community, and loss must be produced.

Diaz-Marcano continues exploring his themes of identity and community and his concerns with how past, history and mythology shapes us, especially in the aftermath of environmental destruction, real or imaginary, and how that destruction affects survival and culture. Who are we, what is community and country, what is family and love when so much is lost? The setting is Slab City in a toxic wasteland by a lake populated by a cast of misfits -- reminds me of Butterworth's Jersualem. It's violent like Letts' Killer Joe, but beautiful with surrealist splashes that Diaz-Marcano is perfect at. Produce this!