Review: FADE at Seattle Public Theater

FADE at Seattle Public Theater is a quiet little show that's worth making a lot of noise about. The play by Tanya Saracho is both a witty and scathing examination of classism, racism, and sexism. An immigrant looks to climb the corporate ladder in Hollywood, but the price of success may be more than she bargained for. Identity, heritage, and friendship are all tokens of negotiation.

FADE is the story of a Mexican immigrant, Lucia (Ana Maria Compoy) starting a new job for a Hollywood studio as a TV writer. She considers the job a sell out for a true writer and mercilessly mocks the executives for their lack of authenticity. Despite her low opinion of the job, she wants to do well and prove that she is more than the token diversity hire. She meets Abel (Marco Adiak Voli), the custodian and the company's only other Latino employee. Their short daily encounters slowly forge a friendship. When Lucia is offered a big opportunity at the TV studio, she must decide what she values more - success or friendship.

Campoy's portrayal of Lucia is layered and nuanced. You feel yourself being pulled in a million directions by this character. She allows tiny glimpses of her character's flaws throughout the show. Slowly you begin to wonder how deep those flaws run. Yet, she retains a portion of deserved compassion. You feel her longing for family and connection. She is one part hero, one part villain, and completely human.

Voli as Abel is a powerhouse. His shifts between gentleness and frustration, desperation and compassion are entrancing. Displaying such an array of emotions while maintaining a portion of machismo is commendable. Voli challenges our preconceptions and pushes our understanding for the individual. In the end both just want to be seen, but only one dares to show their authentic self.

FADE is a story that has been needed for quite some time. I wish the author had trusted its intrinsic value rather than feeling the need to spend the first twenty or so minutes preaching from a soapbox. The beginning felt contrived and too pointed. Once the story relaxed and let the characters and not the message become the focus, the story sailed. Both the characters and the actors portraying them are capable of delivering the message without so much exposition.

Scenic Designer, Jenny Littlefield, delivered a beautiful set that allowed for a variety of movement and action. Director, Pilar O'Connell, delivers a well-paced show with just the right amount of reality provided and imagination needed. Kudos to lighting designer, Ahren Buhmann, for designing a show that gives many different looks while still maintaining the office setting. All together, it is a carefully crafted show that tells an important story with wit, strength, and a touch of humor.

FADE is playing at Seattle Public Theater through November 4th. For tickets or more information, visit seattlepublictheater.org.

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