JUL 23 – AUG 18, 2024 Mandell Weiss Forum
By Noelle Viñas
Directed by Delicia Turner Sonnenberg
Some storms you can’t hide from.
A series of intense storms – a “derecho” – is bearing down on an affluent Virginia neighborhood near D.C., where Eugenia Silva is preparing for a crucial meeting. Eugenia is a politician hoping to join the wave of women of color elected to public office. Her sister Mercedes is a struggling musician fighting to find her way on her own terms. As winds rise and thunder cracks — and tensions between the sisters reach a boiling point — Eugenia’s political ambitions crash into Mercedes’s need to reconnect her sister with their roots.
Propulsive and whip-smart, Derecho confronts how traditional Latino values conflict with an ever-changing American definition of success. Will the storm wipe out their relationship and derail Eugenia’s campaign, or will the rains provide a fresh start?
This engrossing drama from Uruguayan-American writer Noelle Viñas harnesses the danger of colliding the personal and political to reach your goals. Director Delicia Turner Sonnenberg (The Garden) leads the production to bring the poetic language and powerful imagery to life. Derecho is the 11th show to have its premiere at La Jolla Playhouse after development as part of our DNA New Work Series. Descripción en Español
“The bilingual parts of me are pressed flowers. Still. Hidden in books and home videos.” Eugenia, Derecho
Hear what audiences are saying
Derecho audience members share their thoughts on this gripping world premiere play. A show with “wonderfully intricate” characters and “different points of view.”
Watch a chat about the shows
Artistic Director Christopher Ashley and Artistic Producing Director Eric Keen-Louie talk about each show and why they are excited to share them with Playhouse audiences.
First Look (previews): Jul 23 – Jul 27
Weeks 2 – 4: Jul 30 – Aug 18
*‘First Look’ performances are the first week of the run of each show prior to opening night (with some exceptions). First Look tickets are lower price and offer the opportunity to experience the show while the creative team are still polishing and making changes. This is a vital element of a show’s evolution, allowing the creative team to step back and see the show through the eyes and experience of the audience. Playhouse staff speak to the audience briefly before the show starts, and the creative team may be seated near you taking notes.
Content Guidance
Derecho features strong language and stage effects that simulate a storm, including thunder sounds, flickering lightning effects and water-based haze. We understand sensitivities vary from person to person. If you have any questions about content, age-appropriateness or stage effects, please get in touch with our Patron Services team at [email protected] or (858) 550-1010 and we’ll be happy to give you more info.
Ticket discounts
The Playhouse offers a range of ways to save on tickets, including Military, Student and Rush discounts, and $29 tickets in Area 3. Discounts are subject to availability and conditions may apply. Read more here or call Patron Services at (858) 550-1010 for more info.
Enhance your Playhouse experience by attending these free events. Simply book your performance for one of the following dates.
Talkback Tuesday
Participate in a lively discussion with performers and Playhouse staff members immediately following the performance.
Tue, Jul 30 and Aug 6 after the 7:30pm show
Discovery Sunday
Hear from guest speakers in a moderated discussion exploring the themes of the show.
Sun, Aug 11 after the 1pm show
ACCESS Performance (ASL interpretation): Sat, Aug 10, 2pm
The Playhouse caters for a wide range of access and special requirements. Access performances offer American Sign Language interpretation for patrons who are d/Deaf or hard-of-hearing, captioning for patrons to access on individual devices, and a relaxed welcoming environment for patrons with sensory sensitivities. Audio Description for patrons who are blind or have low vision can be requested in advance. Please call (858) 550-1010 or email [email protected] and we will work with you to address your access needs. Find more info about access here.
Sensory Friendly Guide
Read the Sensory Friendly Guide for the Forum Theatre here
Duration
Approximately 1 hour, 35 min; no intermission
Parking
Parking is FREE for La Jolla Playhouse patrons in the South Parking Structure when a valid parking pass is displayed. Take advantage of the free shuttle to the theatre. Find all parking information here.
Covid-19 Policy
La Jolla Playhouse no longer requires patrons to wear masks indoors while attending our theatres. However, we recommend indoor masking while at La Jolla Playhouse. For up-to-date information regarding COVID-19 safety procedures, please visit our Covid Safety Page.
Onsite Dining
La Jolla Playhouse’s on-site restaurant, James’ Place, is open for dinner service at 5pm nightly (Tue – Sun). Please note, James’ Place is not open prior to matinee performances. James’ Place offers full bar service and a selection of specialty sushi, Asian fusion, steak & coastal cuisine items. Reserve your table on OpenTable or by phone on (858) 638-7778. Indoor and outdoor seating available.
Concessions
Concessions opens 60 mins before showtime. Come early to relax outside and enjoy a selection of beer, wine, cocktails, sodas and individually wrapped snacks. All food must be consumed before entering the theatre while concession drinks with lids will be allowed in the theatre.
The Mandell Weiss Forum is a 400-seat thrust stage theatre, with audience members surrounding the stage on three sides.
Get the latest news about the most exciting new shows in San Diego delivered to your inbox.
When you provide your cell, you will get useful reminders about your upcoming tickets, and very occasional texts about big announcements. Rates may apply.
Una serie de intensas tormentas —un “derecho”— se ciernen sobre una buena colonia de Virginia cerca de Washington D.C., en donde Eugenia Silva se prepara para una junta crucial. Eugenia es una política que espera unirse al grupo de mujeres de color elegidas para cargos públicos. Su hermana Mercedes es una música que se encuentra en apuros y lucha por encontrar su camino en sus propios términos. A medida que los vientos aumentan su intensidad y los truenos, y las tensiones entre las hermanas alcanzan un punto de ebullición, las ambiciones políticas de Eugenia chocan con la necesidad de Mercedes de volver a conectar a su hermana con sus raíces. Usando un diálogo inteligente que incita, Derecho muestra cómo los valores latinos tradicionales entran en conflicto con la definición estadounidense de éxito en constante cambio. ¿La tormenta acabará con su relación y afectará la campaña política de Eugenia, o las lluvias proporcionarán un nuevo comienzo? Este fascinante drama de la escritora uruguayo-estadounidense Noelle Viñas muestra el peligro de colisionar lo personal y lo político para alcanzar tus metas. La directora Delicia Turner Sonnenberg dirige la producción, dando vida al lenguaje poético y a las poderosas imágenes.