THE PROMISE | 1988

Jose Rivera's "The Promise" uses magical realism in telling the story of two star-crossed young lovers, Lilia and Carmelo Guzman. Lilia's father is determined to settle a blood feud-- a broken vow alluded to in the title of the play. He believes in the spirit world and is determined to have his daughter marry someone of his choosing. To acheive this end he uses black magic, a combination of voodoo and Catholicism brought from his native Puerto Rico. Guzman gets what he deserves, but not without Lilia also suffering and getting less than she deserves.