A Journey into “Dementia”
By Karina Castillo
Evelina Fernandez’ tale of an AIDS stricken man and the impact the illness has on, not only him but his friends and family, is no less than thought provoking. Those who remember the 2002 workshop of Dementia, you will not be disapointed as Sal Lopez reprises his role as Moises, who spends the entirety of the play planning his ‘going away’ party. But this time he’s going away for good.
The party is attended by his close friends, including his best friend Eddie (Geoff Rivas) and his wife Alice (Lucy Rodriguez), his childhood friend Martin (Danny De La Paz), and ex wife Raquel (Evelina Fernandez), all of whom gave commanding performances. Their friendships are tested by Moises, and each other, the night of the party as they begin to drink tequila and reminisce about old times.
Through Moises’ journey his fragile state brings him in and out of consciousness where we meet his Drag- Queen conscience Lupe, played by the very talented Ralph Cole Jr., who only stops his soulful singing long enough to ridicule Moises for not being honest with his friends, especially ex -wife Raquel. Twists and turns abound when we find that all relationships are not what they seem, and that honesty may not always be the best option. With funny punch lines juxtaposed with somber moments, Dementia proves to be a great night at the theater.
Dementia received a GLAAD Award for Outstanding Theater Production in 2002. It is currently showing at the Los Angeles Theater Center located at 514 S. Spring St in downtown. Thurs.-Fri., 8 p.m.; Sat. 3 & 8 p.m.; Sun., 3 p.m.; thru May 30. ext. #107 or www.thelatc.org A Latino Theater Company Production
