Lin-Manuel Miranda’s and Quiara Alegria Hudes’ In the Heights isn’t just a musical, but a celebration of heritage, community, family and dreams set in the Washington Heights neighborhood. Theatre Arlington kicked off its season with this colorful bang of music and spectacle last weekend. The production thrived on a joyful beat and strong cast that not only pleased the audience, but played with a defiance to today’s climate.Â
The production at last Saturday’s performance began with a big buzz with a packed house and immediate applause. Starting high can be a burden but under Alejandro Saucedo’s direction, the show maintained that energy through its curtain call with consistent performances and pacing.
Jeremy Coca was the show’s central protagonist who fit well into the affable role of Usnavi, the generational bodega owner who had eyes on Vanessa and a soft spot for Abuela Claudia and his young helper Sonny. The show’s an ensemble piece but Coca handled and carried the show ably as the pivotal central character. His singing and rapping were top notch along with his own characterizations that brought Usnavi to life.
As Usnavi’s best friend, Benny, Jamall Houston was the show’s other good guy trying to impress Nina’s parents, particularly her father who was also his boss. Houston delivered big as a strong romantic lead sharing nice chemistry with Jacqueline Castillo as Nina in a firecracker performance. Castillo was earnest and sympathetic as the college returning home from dropping out. She wore that embarrassment in her face to stunning effect, but was also delightful in more whimsical moments. Castillo’s voice was monumental especially when she dropped big vocal runs. She’s slightly weighted down by an ill-fitting romper that did her no favors and was hard to overlook during such a strong performance.
Having only seen Gigi Cervantes in dramas or straight plays, her portrayal of Abuela was a pleasure. She was warm and enchanting in the show’s first half but she still resonated throughout its entirety. Samantha Padilla was dynamic as Daniela, a colorful character who falls well into Padilla’s talents paired with the playful Savannah Yasmine Elayyach as Carla. As Kevin Rosario, Nina’s father, John Sanchez played the protective father and business owner with that “wait ’til your father gets home” conviction. He was well-matched by Araceli Radillo as his strong-willed wife Camila.Â
Sophia Rodriguez Patterson was a powerhouse vocalist as Vanessa, the young woman trying to break out from the neighborhood. In contrast, Sonny and Pete thrived in their surroundings which were conveyed strongly by Nicolas Lama-Riva and Alvaro Carranza.
Music is a big part of the show that mixed salsa, hip-hop, big Broadway ballad and merengue sounds throughout the narrative. Music Director Cherish Love married both these large sounds with the capable cast to bring these songs to life. The six-piece band sounded crystal clear, however, the music occasionally overpowered the actors’ vocals.
Bryan Stevenson’s impressive set design, featuring two-story buildings and street-level action, created a naturalistic and cozy atmosphere that filled the stage. This allowed actors to appear all over the stage, along with entrances from the audience that made for a slightly immersive experience. Stevenson’s skillful use of lighting further amplified the emotions and actions of the play, complementing the overall naturalistic vibe crafted by the creative team. Hannah Bell’s costuming choices were appropriate for the older characters and trendy for the younger ones (I stand by my romper critique!). The choreography, led by Hannah Arguelles, added another dimension of excitement to the production.
In the Heights was a gorgeous production highlighted by an intense passion. The cast and audience were fully invested. The actors felt like they gave it their all in that night’s performance and the rousing ovation from the audience was proof that hard work was appreciated.
The show runs through Feb. 23.
–Rich Lopez