Teatro ZinZanni is known for it’s zany circus theatrics and odd comedy. However, it is no surprise that Ricardo Salinas, aka “Slick Rick,” would make his directorial debut with Teatro ZinZanni’s latest production entitled Caliente, an ingenious show that had the audience roaring with laughter.
An original member of the renowned trio Culture Clash, Salinas, who was born in El Salvador and raised in San Francisco’s Mission District, has made a name for himself across the United States as an artist, writer, comedian and activist. With Caliente, Salinas still maintains the same unique artistic expression shown in his past work and like always, pops it with a twist of comedy and even a cultural lesson.
Caliente takes place with a fictional Teatro ZinZanni that is in danger of being shut down. The staff refuses to see it go, however, so they decide to create their own Teatro ZinZanni-inspired show. They hope that the new owner Mr. Ching, played by Ling Rui who makes his solo debut with Teatro ZinZanni, and his callous real estate agent, played by the talented Rebekah Del Rio, will be given an offer they can’t refuse.
From the mostly Latino kitchen staff to the janitor, each member gets their chance to shine. The hosts, Tres and Cinco, the kitchen staff siblings who have dreams of becoming the next famous Latino brother and sister duo, band everyone together to give what may be their last audience a night to remember and a reason to keep the theater open.
Throughout the show, audiences are taken back with the colorful costumes and wonderfully flamboyant characters. Christine Deaver and Robert Lopez, the brother and sister act, deliver outstanding performances. Cinco, performed by Lopez who is well known for being the Mexican Elvis of our time, pays homage to Salinas’ own onstage persona, bringing a sweet humorous energy to the stage mixed with musical talent and intensity. And no one can forget the “larger than life” Tres, played by Deaver, a veteran of Teatro ZinZanni, who’s own Latina roots shine through the vivaciousness her character embodies. Deavor’s powerful vocal talent and wittiness gives Caliente the heat expected to be seen.
Yet, Salinas’ show is more than just glittery costumes, laugh-out-loud humor and great music. He makes obvious that this show is about cultural pride, respect and representation of the Latino community. Salinas incorporates music from legendary Latino artists, such as Santana and Eydie Gormé. He also incorporates historical figures, such as Adelita, and even original songs that serve to bring Latino pride to the stage. Although the show at times includes some Latino stereotypes – such as vatos, tequila, ponchos, and mustaches in the name of entertaining the mainstream audience – Salinas’ messages are fresh.
Anyone who is familiar with Salinas’ work, especially the comically clever Culture Clash, will definitely appreciate what the show has to offer. Salinas’ witty political cracks and creative representation of Latino culture gives audiences something to laugh about and even something to think about. The price for a ticket is a bit high, but it includes a five-course dinner and three-hours of priceless entertainment.
Caliente runs through June 19, Wednesday through Sunday. For more information on times and ticket prices call (415) 438-2668 or go to www.love.zinzanni.org