Through Juggernaut Theater Co’s Miami Motel Stories, I’ve traveled through time and experienced history from the Boulevard, to Wynwood, and across the bridge to North Miami Beach. Each director hast told a unique tale and immersed us into a different time and place in Miami’s rich and vibrant history. As one that isn’t particularly into participating and interacting with the arts, I’ve been pleasantly surprised and engaged at each and every single one. The North Beach show is no different.
I first met the ladies behind Motel Stories, Tanya and Natasha Bravo at the MiMo set following their successful Little Havana premiere when one of my dearest friends, Ana Maria Morales, was hired as the Lightning Designer. Ana Maria introduced me to the lovely and talented set designer, Li Milan. I’ve gotten lost in warehouses full of antiques and explored abandoned hotel rooms as Li and Ana Maria have gathered and carefully placed props and lights. Watching these ladies at work has been both a privilege and an honor. What a powerhouse!
Despite all the behind the scenes action, I’m always completely surprised when I see it all come together. The moment you pick up your key, you step through the portal. You’re assigned a role and become part of the story. Each room you walk into is a small part of the play that comes together as you step out from one room and to another. Through the characters and their experiences, we’re reminded of our struggles and how far we’ve come as a community. It’s all truly magical to see unfold and an experience that has completely changed the way I and many others enjoy theater. Thank you Motel Stories. We hope there’s more to come.
Pro Tip: Go more than once! Each of the four Motel Stories “tracks” takes you down a different path with different characters and pieces of the story. It’s definitely something you want to attend at least a couple of times to get the full experience. They just announced shows through March so there’s plenty of time!!
FEATURED EVENT
Thursday, February 6 2020
Juggerknot Theatre Company in partnership with Ocean Terrace Holdings presents Miami Motel Stories North Beach. The critically acclaimed real-time immersive theatre experience telling the history of Miami neighborhoods in motels and hotels. Written by: Juan C. Sanchez Directed by: Ana Margineanu and Tai Thompson.
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