Palomar Performing Arts Press Release
June 30, 2008
Wait a Minute!
How did it come to this? Patriot Patrols, migrant workers and divided families collide when Palomar Performing Arts launches three performances of Wait a Minute, Men! – a real time take on contemporary border/immigration issues – in the Howard Brubeck Theatre July 11, 12 and 13.
Conceived by Carlos von Son and Michael Mufson (Mufson also directs), the play attempts an even-handed view of the conflictive rivalries and allegiances that drive the ongoing immigration debate. The performance, inclusive of adult language and situations, is intended for both English and Spanish speaking audiences.
“My wish is that this play will inspire people to take the time to think at a deeper level about the border situation in the Southern California / Baja California area,” von Son says. “I hope the audience will question their beliefs and be more open to see the dilemma from both sides.”
“This is a rare opportunity for a community to see its own experiences and struggles reflected directly on the stage,” Mufson adds. “We have made it our struggle to be honest with ourselves, our characters, our actors and our community.”
The fictional story-telling, set in San Diego County, begins with a confrontation between the Patriot Patrol and immigration activists in front of local church. From there, descriptions and clarifications are dispersed through a series of flashbacks, enhanced with split stages, authentic web postings and live Ballet Folklorico performances. No easy chore to set on a stage, Mufson says.
“This play does depict two opposing ideologies. It would have been easy for us to write a one-sided rant, a piece of political agitation,” he admits. “What Carlos and I discovered in developing the story and characters of the play is another conflict that is common to both sides – the conflict between those who advocate for violent action and those who insist on peaceful methods. In many ways, that is the central conflict of the play.”
Tickets for Wait A Minute, Men! are $12 General, $10 Seniors/Staff and $8 students. Advance purchases can be made online at www.palomarperforms.com, or by calling the box office at 760.744.1150 x2453.
Showtimes for Wait A Minute, Men! are as follows: Friday and Saturday, 8pm; Sunday, 2pm.
The Howard Brubeck Theatre is located at 1140 W. Mission Road, on the Palomar College campus in San Marcos.
Randy Hoffman
Publicity/Program Coordinator
Palomar Performing Arts
760.744.1150x2317