
Developed and sensitively directed by Theresa Gambacorta, the piece has been performed in various venues over the past year, but Alvarez's storytelling resonates with heartfelt immediacy, as does his love of country and family. His script has been cannily crafted to build suspense. It's not until the final episodes that we learn in detail of the immense courage and intelligence it took for his father to plan the escape. Augmented by Kelly Ericson Harnett's sound and Ellen Rosenberg's lighting, this is one hour of totally compelling theater. It will blow away any reservations you might have about seeing yet another one-person show.
Presented by My Last Penny Productions as part of the New York International Fringe Festival at the Studio @ Cherry Lane Theatre, 38 Commerce St., NYC. Aug. 17–26. Remaining performances: Thu., Aug. 18, 8:15 p.m.; Sat., Aug. 20, 2 p.m.; Sun., Aug. 21, 6:30 p.m.; Wed., Aug. 24, 6:30 p.m.; Fri., Aug. 26, 10 p.m. (866) 468-7619 or www.fringenyc.org.