“Falcon Girls,” is a semi-autobiographical play by Hilary Bettis. This production is also a World Premiere that was further developed by Yale Repertory Theatre.
Falcon, Colorado is located in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains. For those unfamiliar with this rural area, it contains numerous horse ranches and small farms. Many of its people still carry the mentality of the “Wild West.” Everyone seems to own a pick-up truck, a gun, and likes to go hunting. However, many will agree that no matter where you live, it’s mostly the women who like to care for horses and other animals.
It follows that, “Falcon Girls” contains 6 high school girls played by: Gabrielle Policano, Alexa Lopez, Alyssa Marek, Anna Roman, Annie Ambramczyk, Sophia Marcelle and ONLY ONE, very awkward boy (Juan Sebastian Cruz). All are members of the “Future Farmers of America” (FFA). This organization is concerned with the care of horses and competes with other schools for State Awards.
The setting is the 1990’s. The two adults in the play are “Mr. K” (Teddy Canez) and “Beverly” (Liza Fernandez). Canez is the club’s even-tempered coach. He is also the team’s bus-driver and unexpectedly becomes the wise counselor to a couple of his wayward girls. Fernandez is “Hilary’s” (Gabrielle Policano) strict, hard-working, over-protective, single mother.
“Hilary,” is the name of the playwright and the play’s central character. As she enters the group scene, and her Mexican heritage is discovered, the newcomer is compared with her gray horse — which is also of mixed breed. This leads to endless teasing by her catty, FFA peers. In addition, Hilary is tormented at home by an over-worked, over-protective, single mother.
This coming of age play touches on strong, religious traditions and includes the subject of abortion. The writing is poignant and the direction by May Adrales is quite sensitive. Scenes featuring the two adults and their individual charges are genuine tear-jerkers.
The entire cast is outstanding. Among the numerous highlights is a joyful abundance of dancing, choreographed by Kimiye Corwin. Unique, is what I call, “The Horse-Judging Ballet.” It’s great fun to watch the girls circle the arena for awards while reflecting individual personalities upon imaginary horses.
As the team climbs to “The Nationals,” numerous, car-driving scenes serve to move the plot forward. This technique can be a distraction. Never-the-less, the main message that shines through is that working together while caring for animals develops compassion, resiliency and responsibility. And, Bettis clever inserts other, serious matters that are important to ponder during our troubled times.
