Theatre Under The Stars (TUTS) has brought a slice of New York's vibrant culture to the Hobby Center with their all-new production of "In The Heights". The show, created by the architect of "Hamilton", Lin-Manuel Miranda, is making a rousing impression here in Houston. "In The Heights" is delivering its spirited narrative about community dreams and cultural tensions onto the stages of the Hobby Center through June 1 – and, yes, you can still nab tickets, as reported by Houston Press.
A Houston native, Jordan Leal is debuting with TUTS in this musical extravaganza – and her role as Nina Rosario is hitting close to home. In an interview with Eyewitness News, Leal shared her connection with her character's struggles with aspirations, disappointment, and cultural expectations. Houston's diversity arguably heightens the poignancy of this immigrant story, a sentiment Leal, a Latina herself has experienced firsthand – according to Eyewitness News.
TUTS' portrayal doesn't just dance across the stage; it encapsulates the hopes and hitches of real life in the cultural tapestry of Washington Heights. With powerful performances by an ensemble cast including Daniel L. Melo as Usnavi, and Carisa Gonzalez as Daniela, the play is a relatable blend of everyday dreams facing societal hurdles. Lamont Walker II's role as the non-Hispanic Benny is notable, his character wading through cultural divides and the bass-thumping heartbeat of New York, as described by Houston Press.
The driving beat of the musical, underscored by the infectious nature of salsa and Latin dance rhythms, might struggle against the acoustics of Sarofim Hall, leading to some of Miranda's witty rap lyrics to be unfortunately, muffled. Yet the essence – a community's unified pulse – sails across, even if the detailed cleverness of Miranda's lyrics don't land with crystal clarity, as pointed out by the Houston Press. The show's conclusion, met with resounding ovations, affirms its success: a narrative that translates and transcends the contours of Broadway convention.
You can catch this radiating piece of lyric and dance at the Hobby Center, with performances slotted at 7:30 p.m. from Tuesdays through Thursdays, and Sundays; 8 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays; and a matinee at 2 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays. Prices range from $45 to $165 – a small price to pay for a cultural phenomenon that's right in your backyard. To learn more or to secure your spot, visit TUTS' website or call 713-558-8877, as per Houston Press.
-5.webp?w=160&h=400&fit=crop&crop=edges)
