Mushroom is a dynamic story following immigrants in Kennett Square at a Mushroom plant. This story isn’t just their stories or stories that is specific to immigrants but for all of us. There was such connection as we watched this stories unfold. From Ignacio who is a hard worker attempting to give his family what he dreamed for them and more. We have Edit who understand that education is her gift to helping others. These stories are our real melting pot. As much as there is talk about borders-who is really controlling them? Be prepared to listen and hear both in English and Spanish.
Mushroom and the Art of Storytelling
In this production there are multiple stories happening at one time. Several dynamics and connections in regards to what is right and wrong. In Mushroom the stories stand alone as they connect. For instance Edit (played by Kenia Munguia) is the daughter of Lety (played by Laura Crotte). We find out how and why Lety left what she knew as home to come to Kennett Square. Her story had some layers to it. For instance I definitely identified with her saying to Edit, that she took her over her brother because she was her favorite child. I found a lot of movement in that alone. Add the sexual abuse that she endured while in a male dominated position as a picker at the Mushroom factory there was so much to consider.
Third Person Omniscient
At first, Janice Amaya threw me off. I couldn’t understand her weaving in and out of the story. Then I realized they/them’s presence made sense to give extra layer to the stories being told. Mushroom couldn’t have been told without them. There was clarity with Janice’s presence. Pieces that I would have missed was tied with them. There were parts that needed definition and Janice provided it.
Mushroom is Engrossed with Culture
Culture is strong from the time you step on the property until you leave. I have been at many productions at People’s Light. None as colorfully done as Mushroom. From the Mexican snacks and drinks that were given and available for purchase to the music in the lobby, culture is on full display. In addition to the culture being a backdrop and aesthetic, to I am sure some, there is deep culture rooted in how the story unfolds. When I say culture being a backdrop this is how so many people view Mexican Americans. Good for food, labor, and other cultural nuances but muted outside of it. When it’s time to see people as people instead of a project or mood, do we “see” others as they want to be viewed. This question is going to have a chokehold inside of the theater and outside of it as well.
Where’s the Real Border in Mushroom?
For instance I watched at some of the audience member being uncomfortable. Some didn’t understand that at times of pain or loss, how united everyone was. The dance theme was probably my favorite. All of the story tellers come together singing strong, proud, and beautiful. I sat behind a woman who I assumed was of Mexican culture. She and her joy bounced off over to me. It was as if it didn’t matter who was on the stage, they spoke for her yet if I interviewed her she would have more to tell. The border is indirectly and directly a point of contention. Think about it, when anyone no matter their background comes to the United States they must go through the Citizenship test to become a citizen.
Is the Constitution, Unconstitutional?
The questions are unconstitutional. I know that this is where I will have some readers fall off of reading but it is. Have you read the questions. Most Americans who were born here wouldn’t be able to answer them. So as those who want the borders closed to Mexicans (as it seems to be the heightened questioned) seem to be okay when the same group of people are used for the labor that don’t see as honorable. These questions are read aloud. As a political science major, I haven’t read these questions in a long time. It was the loudness of Janice that smacked me in the face for the first time in a long time.
Gems and Jewels Dropped
However I never give all of the jewels and gems. I want you to see it for yourself. There are aspects that has language and adult themes. I would caution this for anyone under the age of 13. The way that the stage is set up, you aren’t simply watching it. You are in it and therefore responsible for the actions you take from it. Don’t come and take it as a play. It is a call to action. When we are around those who disagree challenge it. We say that we are a country for those who want a better life until we think they (whoever the they are) intrude are own civil liberties to express our racism and hate.
Thank you to the full cast of Mushroom. Mushroom has stories of hard work, unfairness, greed, identity, and culture and hits us so hard that it’s hard not to leave and see where you stand in all of this. This story isn’t a their, as much as it is ours. You will see what I mean. There were real tears that flowed. Thank you to Allied Global and People’s Light for having me.
Mushroom is in production from now until October 16, 2022! Get your tickets now.
