The Madres Reviews
Los Angeles Times- Somewhat Recommended
"...Theaters in San Diego, Chicago and Austin, Texas, have lined up to present "The Madres," so decision-makers clearly see value in this script, particularly at a time when female solidarity is making headlines. This first production isn't all that it could be, but perhaps Walker and her future theatrical partners will find ways to move audiences' hearts into their throats."
LA Weekly- Recommended
"...The good news is that the production picks up in the second act, when the frightened and intimidated Belen finally appears, and the production builds to an effective climax. Natalie Llerena gives a subtle, captivating and thoroughly believable performance that communicates the terror her character has endured. And it's complemented by the work of Ortiz who, after a satisfactory but not memorable showing in Act 1, really delivers the goods in Act 2 as a distraught mother helpless to protect her child."
Broadway World- Recommended
"...The Skylight Theatre Company's National New Play Network Rolling World Premiere of THE MADRES most effectively succeeds in personalizing the plight of Argentinean mothers of 'disappeared' children during the height of La Guerra Sucia (The Dirty War) in 1978. Anchored by the two incredibly strong performances of Margarita Lamas as Josefina and Arianna Ortiz as her daughter Carolina, THE MADRES involves and mesmerizes whenever these two interact"
Stage Scene LA- Highly Recommended
"...Playwright Stephanie Alison Walker pays tribute to the women who would not be silenced when their sons and daughters started disappearing by the thousands during the "dirty war" waged by the Argentine military dictatorship on its own citizens beginning in the mid-1970s in The Madres, another powerhouse Skylight Theatre World Premiere."
ArtsInLA- Highly Recommended
"...The Madres is not just a solid and moving reminder of Argentina in the '70s. It puts a human face on political tragedies without being preachy, which isn't always an easy balance. And it's particularly timely with the oppression happening in this country these days. It should inspire us all to put on a white headscarf and march in front of the capitol under our own oppressive political regime."
Stage Raw- Highly Recommended
"...Walker's play begins in a fairly conventional way but builds up a strong head of steam as it progresses, culminating in in a harrowing, gut-wrenching climax at the shower for Belen's expected baby. And director Sara Guerrero has assembled an exemplary cast. Ortiz creates an indelible portrait of a woman passionately attempting to protect her child, while as Diego Pimentel is impressive as a smug, hateful true believer."
The Los Angeles Beat- Highly Recommended
"...'The Madres' is a play about courage during a time when courage could lead to a person's death. Considering the political events that are transpiring in our own country the play is extremely timely, making it a "must see"."
Peoples World- Highly Recommended
"...Director Sara Guerrero, founding artistic director of the Santa Ana-based Breath of Fire Latina Theater Ensemble, does masterfully subtle work in The Madres, bringing out ambiguities and humanity even in the role of Diego, who might in other hands become a cardboard villain. In her direction, for each of her characters, we in our theatre seats must surely be asking ourselves, "How would I behave in such circumstances?" Guerrero maintains her sense of empathy with every one of her cast members."