A SAMUEL FRENCH, INC. TITLE

The Cook

Full-Length Play, Drama  /  3w, 2m

"Completely riveting.'' - Newsday

"First rate.... Machado uses the kitchen as a metaphor to examine the oppression and betrayals of both exile and revolution. A shining theatrical experience.'' - The New Yorker

"Powerfu…

  • Cast Size
    Cast Size
    3w, 2m

Details

Summary
As Fidel Castro storms Habana, a wealthy Batistlano is forced to flee to America with her husband and unborn child. Adria begs her cook, a proud and loyal woman who values her mistress's friendship, to promise she will protect the mansion from the communist upheaval. Over the next forty years Gladys keeps this promise, despite tremendous emotional and physical loss. When Adria's daughter vacations in Cuba and comes to see her mother's old house, Gladys is forced to confront harsh truths. Not only has Adria forgotten her, but now Glayds is accused of leading a life of betrayal in a house that isn't hers. Gladys's struggle mirrors the cultural divide in Cuba that separates the delicately preserved past from the need to survive that is molding a rough-hewed future from the majestic determination and nobility of the Cuban people.

Media

"Completely riveting.''" - Newsday

First rate.... Machado uses the kitchen as a metaphor to examine the oppression and betrayals of both exile and revolution. A shining theatrical experience.'' - The New Yorker

Licensing & Materials

  • Minimum Fee: $110 per performance

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Authors

Eduardo Machado

Eduardo Machado was born in Cuba and came to the United States when he was eight. He grew up in Los Angeles. He is the author of over forty plays. They include The Floating Island Plays, Once Removed, Stevie Wants To Play The Blues, A Burning Beach, Havana Is Waiting, and The ...
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