DESTINO
A Musical
Music by Daniel Hendrick
Book by Jack Shea
Spanish Translation by Pilar Montano
Editors: Wanda Shea & Juan M. Morones
Daniel Hendrick
Daniel.Hendrick@netzero.net
(619) 670 -5270
Jack Shea
3976 Montiel Truck Trail
Jamul, CA 91935-2505
619) 445-2603-Home
619) 474-6444-Business
Jeshea5050@aol.com
www.jackshea.net
© 2003
All rights reserved.
CAST OF CHARACTERS
(In order of appearance)
CHORUS
ANGEL LOPEZ
CHUCK MAYFAIR
COYOTE 1
COYOTE 2
RAMON ORTIZ
EDUARDO
FELIPE
MAN 1 / MAN 2
ROSA
ISABEL ORTIZ
SEÑOR LOPEZ
SEÑORA LOPEZ
RAFAEL BARRAGAN (The Patrón)
VICTORIA BARRAGAN (The Patróness)
PRIEST
DON
STEPHANIE
CAPTAIN OF FEDERALES / FEDERALES
PARAMEDICS
TABLE OF CONTENTS:
Introduction................................1
Act I, Scene 1
The Fanfarron Scene (Braggarts).............4
Act I, Scene 2
Evening.....................................9
Act I, Scene 3
The Papa Scene.............................16
Act I, Scene 4
The Coyote Scene...........................23
Act I, Scene 5
The Patrón Scene...........................28
Act I, Scene 6
Vino Y Pan.................................36
Act II, Scene 1
The Mordida Scene (Bribe)..................47
Act II, Scene 2
Estoy Contenta (I am Content)..............53
Act II, Scene 3
Dulzura Scene..............................61
Act II, Scene 4
El Sueño Americano (American Dream)........67
Act II, Scene 5
Maridos y Mujeres (Husbands & Wives).......76
Act II, Scene 6
La Visa or Mí Dios.........................88
Act II, Scene 7
La Caza (The Hunt) ..................96
Act II, Scene 8
No Tengo Miedo (I Have No Fear)...........100
DESTINO Song Index:
1. Migra...................................02
2. Fanfarron...............................06
3. Soñar...................................07
4. Marry Me................................12
5. Destino.................................14
6. Intento.................................19
7. Quiero Ser..............................21
8. Coyote Song.............................25
9. Miracles................................34
10. Vino Y Pan..............................36
11. Tango de Amor...........................38
12. Come Dance W/Me.........................45
13. Bite of the Shark (Mordida).............51
14. Estoy Contenta (I am Content)..........53
15. Rosa's dance Destino (Rock version).....55
16. La Promesa (The Promise)................59
17. No Puede Vivir..........................63
18. There is a Place........................66
19. Dulzura.................................72
20. Keeper of the Gate......................74
21. Do I Remember...........................80
22. El Sueño Americano......................86
23. Rosa's Prayer...........................95
24. No tengo Miedo(I have no Fear) ........106
25. Canto Negro............................114
26. Destino................................115
Introduction
Somewhere in the mountains along the Mexican / American
border between the cities of San Diego and Tijuana. The Migra
music starts with an American style of tempo and later switches
to a Mexican tempo. The stage becomes illuminated by a full moon.
Perched on either side of the moon, two (human)COYOTES. Their
appearance should be as perhaps a Pharaoh in front of his tomb.
They tilt their heads from side to side to coincide with the music.
They tilt their heads backwards and laugh as Border Patrol Agents,
CHUCK MAYFAIR and ANGEL LOPEZ, along with 2 other AGENTS enter stage
right. Many illegal aliens enter from stage left. The STAGE LIGHTS
dim as a shadow passes across the moon. Stage right should indicate
the American side of the border; stage left the Mexican side. The
COYOTES now join the MEN and WOMEN known as POLLOS(chickens), who
are attempting to cross the border into the United States. As the
music and dialogue indicate this should be a confrontational scene;
the Americans are taunting the Mexicans and the Mexicans are taunting
the Americans. Beacons of light from the Border Patrol Agent's
flashlights scan the audience momentarily having the audience
experience what it would be like to be the prey.
LOPEZ
Over there! You hear it? Give me some light.
MAYFAIR
There ain't nothing there.
COYOTE 1
(laughing)
Hey gringos! Try to your left.
LOPEZ
There they are! Let's get them...
COYOTE 2
Nothing you can do Migra. We are on the Mexican
side of the border.
LOPEZ
We'll wait you son of a bitch. We know you will cross tonight.
COYOTE 1
mockingly)
Gringo, why do you call us such bad names?
We want to be your friends.
LOPEZ
(equally mocking)
Just doing our job, AMIGO.
LOPEZ and MAYFAIR (Sing "MIGRA")
WE DEFEND THE BORDER CROSSING,
EVERY NIGHT WE FIGHT TO STOP THEM PASSING,
YES, WE TRY TO KEEP THOSE POLLOS, OVER THERE.
THERE ARE THOUSANDS COMING CROSS THE BORDER,
BUT WE'VE SOMEHOW GOT TO KEEP THE ORDER,
AND PROTECT OUR COUNTRY'S BORDERS WITH GREAT CARE.
MAYFAIR (Sings)
THERE I SEE THEM IN THE GRASS,
COME ON LET'S GO KICK SOME ASS.
NOW'S THE TIME TO START THE RODEO.
LOPEZ (Sings)
NO! NOW'S THE TIME THAT WE MUST TRY TO TEACH THOSE GUYS,
LIKE CHUCK MAYFAIR,(WHO JUST DON'T CARE!)
THAT THERE IS A BETTER WAY!
POLLOS (Sing)
THEY DEFEND THE BORDER CROSSING,
EVERY NIGHT THEY FIGHT TO STOP US PASSING,
BUT WE TRY TO FIND A WAY TO GET OVER THERE.
WE ARE THOUSANDS GOING CROSS THE BORDER,
JUST TO FIND A JOB AND MAKE SOME DOLLARS,
TO SEND BACK HOME TO HELP OUR FAMILIES THERE.
COYOTE 1 (Sings)
PINCHIS GRINGOS, THEY DON'T CARE.
THEY TAKE A BRIBE THEN DISAPPEAR.
I'M THE ONE WHO REALLY HAS CONTROL.
IT'S JUST THAT THEY DON'T KNOW!
RAMON (Sings)
SOMEDAY I WILL FIND A WAY TO GO TO L.A.,
OH I MUST TRY TO FIND A WAY,
SO I CAN GO!
COYOTE 1 (Sings)
PINCHIS GRINGOS, THEY DON'T CARE.
THEY TAKE A BRIBE THEN DISAPPEAR.
I'M THE ONE WHO REALLY HAS CONTROL.
COYOTE 2
It's time you damn pollos. Run. Run like the wind.
The COYOTES and POLLOS start to run across the border.
MAYFAIR
Stop you son of a bitch!
LOPEZ and MAYFAIR
Alto! Alto! Alto!
Suddenly from the top of the mountain a gunshot is fired. All the ACTORS freeze in place and stare upwards as we go to...
BLACKOUT.
End of Introduction
Act I, Scene 1
The Fanfarron Scene (Braggarts)
A cantina in the village of Guadalupe, Baja California, Mexico.
It is Saturday night, the work week is over and the young men and women
of the village are in a festive mood. COUPLES are seated at different
tables. There is much laughter except from three solemn men who sit at
a table, stage left: RAMON, FELIPE and EDUARDO. The three men are mariachis.
They sit with their sombreros on the table and their instruments at their
sides. On stage right at another table sit three COYOTES. Our focus is on
the COYOTES and RAMON. RAMON picks up his guitar and begins to strum as
though seeking the perfect notes for his song, "MARRY ME," to
sing to Isabel. The COYOTES laugh among themselves and one of the men points at RAMON.
COYOTE 1
The man is loco.
COYOTE 2
He is in love.
COYOTE 1
What's the difference?
COYOTE 3
Look closer my friends. Our Ramon has the look of a man who
wishes to be devoured.
The COYOTES laugh as the light fades and they disappear into the shadows. The young MEN and WOMEN now move downstage as RAMON is searching for the chords for the song, which will become, "MARRY ME." FELIPE and EDUARDO pick up their instruments and try to follow RAMON'S lead.
RAMON
(to his compadres)
It must be perfect.
EDUARDO
You worry too much, Ramon.
FELIPE
Be patient my friend. It will come to you.
The young PEOPLE now converge towards RAMON's table. They move in a very macho, aggressive manner, each actor strutting as though to say, "I am the best man/woman of the valley." They begin to taunt RAMON for his shyness.
MAN 1
(mocking, yet in fun)
Isabel!
(on bended knee)
Marry me, Isabel!
MAN 2
Look at him blush. What woman wants to marry a camaron(shrimp)?
COYOTE 1 joins the men as does COYOTE 2.
COYOTE 1
Women. BAH! You have nothing. They do not want you.
You make a success of yourself in the world and they want it all.
COYOTE 2
He speaks the truth. I was nothing to my woman until
I bought my ranchita in San Quintín. Now I am muy importante.
COYOTE 1
You call that miserable piece of land a ranchita.
You should see the ranchita I bought near San Felipe. I tell you amigo,
you come with me in my Chevy pick-up at six in the morning and you will
not reach the other side of the ranchita until six at night.
COYOTE 2
(in mock sympathy)
I understand very well my friend.
I once had a Chevy that ran that poorly as well.
All the MEN laugh.
RAMON
A woman must be treated with respect to gain their trust.
COYOTE 1
I trust my dog but when it makes me angry I kick it.
ROSA
Be careful what you kick. If it has teeth it may bite back.
COYOTE 2
Never be kind to a woman.
COYOTE 1
Verdad my friend. The kinder you are to them, they just use you.
(to Ramon)
I will tell you how to treat your Isabel.
COYOTE 1 (Sings "FANFARRON")
NEVER BE KIND TO A WOMAN WHEN YOU DO THEY JUST USE YOU!
OH NEVER SPEAK SWEETLY FOR SHE'LL CUT YOU SO DEEPLY,
SHE'LL SCREW YOU!
ALWAYS BE MACHO AND A LITTLE BORRACHIO WILL HELP TOO!
JUST SAY BRING THE TEQUILA,
FRIOLES Y TORTILLAS,
AND MAYBE IF YOU'RE LUCKY I'LL KISS YOU!
COYOTE 2
(Sings-Pretending to be ISABEL)
OH TELL ME DEAR MACHO CAN I BRING YOUR CIGAROS OR HOUSE SHOES?
CAN I MAKE YOU SOME TACOS OR A LITTLE BURRITO,
(BUT YOU CHOOSE),
YOU ARE MY TREASURE, AND ALL OF MY LIFE IS TO SERVE YOU,
JUST SAY BRING ME THE TEQUILA,
FRIOLES Y TORTILLAS,
AND MAYBE IF I'M LUCKY
YOU'LL KISS ME!
COYOTE 1
THAT'S THE WAY MEN SHOULD TREAT ALL THEIR WOMEN
THAT'S THE WAY…YOU MUST TEACH THEM TO SERVE YOU.
TEACH THEM TODAY AND TOMORROW THEY ARE HAPPY TO SERVE…YOU,
JUST SAY BRING THE TEQUILA, FRIOLES TY TORTILLAS
AND MAYBE IF YOU'RE LUCKY I'LL KISS YOU.
COYOTE 2
(Sings- Pretending to be Isabel)
MAY I RUB YOUR FEET OR GET YOU A DRINK,
TEACH US TODAY AND TOMORROW WE ARE HAPPY TO SERVE YOU,
JUST SAY BRING THE TEQUILA FRIOLES Y TORTILLAS,
AND MAYBE IF I'M LUCKY YOU'LL KISS ME,
JUST SAY BRING THE TEQUILA FRIOLES Y TORTILLAS,
AND MAYBE IF I'M LUCKY YOU'LL KISS ME.
ROSA
You men are animals. A real woman knows how to tame you.
ROSA seductively approaches RAMON and his FRIENDS. She bends over RAMON exposing her breasts. She shakes her body. RAMON shyly turns away. MAN 2 approaches ROSA and cups his hands about her breasts.
MAN 2 (continued)
(with a leer)
Rosa. Show Ramon how a real woman treats a man.
ROSA shoves MAN 2 away and laughs.
ROSA
Perhaps I would if I could find a real man in this valley!
(to MAN 2)
You have the face of a chango.(monkey).
MAN 2 starts to respond but ROSA holds up her hand.
ROSA (continued)
Silencio!
(to Ramon)
Perhaps there is only one real man in this valley
ROSA (Sings-"SOÑAR")
IN LATIN WOMEN THERE'S PASSION AND RHYTHM,
THAT NO MAN SHOULD TRY TO CONTROL,
BUT I WILL NOT HIDE I CAN'T DENY,
ALL THIS PASSION I'M FEELING INSIDE.
MUSIC AND DANCING IGNITE LOVE'S ROMANCING
IT'S THUNDERING FILLS EVERY SOUL,
IT'S SO SUBLIME IT'S RHYTHM AND TIME,
CARESSING ME BODY AND SOUL.
SOÑAR THE MUSIC IS CALLING
OH SOÑAR, ITS RHYTHM'S ENTHRALLING,
SPEAKING TO ME WORDS SO EXCITING,
MY BODY FLOATS OUT OF CONTROL!
She approaches RAMON and dances seductively around him.
The music becomes faster and faster as ROSA dances and
attempts to seduce RAMON. Finally the music winds down
and ROSA, exhausted, ends her song by sitting upon RAMON's
lap, placing his head between her breasts. RAMON backs away;
then quickly rises to his feet as ROSA falls to the floor.
RAMON reaches down and helps ROSA to her feet.
RAMON
(excitedly)
I am sorry Rosa. I finally have it!
EDUARDO (Ramon's friend)
What do you have Ramon?
RAMON
The song! It is clear in my head.
FELIPE (Ramon's friend)
What song?
RAMON
The song I will sing to my novia (girlfriend).
I will ask my Isabel to marry me. Pronto amigos. Follow me!
End of Act I, Scene 1
Act I, Scene 2
Evening
In the darkness RAMON, EDUARDO and FELIPE carry their instruments
to the casa of ISABEL. The young MEN and WOMEN of the village follow
at a distance but always in the shadows. The COYOTES are poised to
leap upon some sort of prey. The MEN and WOMEN are JOKING and LAUGHING,
until once again RAMON silences them by merely holding his hand to his
lips. The CROWD becomes silent as RAMON alone approaches the casa and
whispers the name of his novia.(girlfriend)
RAMON
Isabel.
There is no reply. Once again RAMON whispers, slightly louder.
RAMON (continued)
Isabel.
No response.
EDUARDO
Maybe she is asleep.
MAN 1
Maybe she knows it is you and cringes in fear.
MAN 2 brings RAMON a small pebble and hands it to RAMON.
MAN 2
Toss this gently against her window.
ROSA
(To RAMON)
What makes you think she wants you anyway? You are nothing but a
grape picker like the rest of us.
RAMON
I am an artist. A musician. A man of dreams.
MAN 1
(spitting)
A musician. Ha! You play in the bars on weekends in Ensenada.
The gringos toss you a few dollars as over and over they request,
Quizás, Quizás, Quizás.
MAN 2
What few gringos that come anymore since September 11th.
EDUARDO
How little you know. Ramon is a man of destiny.
FELIPE
Give me the pebble, Ramon.
RAMON gives the pebble to FELIPE, who gently tosses it at ISABEL's window. The window slightly opens. The stage is in shadows, thus at first ISABEL can see no one and apprehensively says;
ISABEL
Who's there?
RAMON shyly enters the light.
RAMON
Isabel.
Isabel
Ramon? Is that you?
RAMON
Sí.
ISABEL
What is it Ramon? Are you alright?
RAMON
I need to ask you something.
ISABEL
Yes?
RAMON
Isabel…I… I… I…
ISABEL
What is it Ramon?
RAMON
(in a loud voice)
I!
ISABEL
Hush! Stay there. I will come outside. Papa and Mama are sleeping.
ISABEL disappears momentarily.
MAN 1
Our artist has lost his ability to speak.
MAN 2
Perhaps his destiny is to be a mute.
ROSA
You men have no vision.
(to Ramon)
Tell her in words you know, Ramon.
ISABEL
What is it Ramon? I thought you were singing in Ensenada tonight.
RAMON
Isabel I have come to ask you…to persuade you…to implore you…
ISABEL
Por Dios, Ramon, we have known each other since we were children. Speak to me.
RAMON turns to EDUARDO and FELIPE and implores.
RAMON
Help me compadres. My tongue has betrayed me.
EDUARDO and FELIPE emerge from the shadows, instruments in hand. They softly play the music from "MARRY ME," and the music enhances RAMON's courage.
RAMON (continued)
(taking ISABEL's hand)
Please sit here on the bench.
(She does so.)
This is the only way I know how to ask you an important question.
ISABEL
Then ask me before the sun rises.
RAMON
Amigos. Please help me.
Slowly EDUARDO and FELIPE play the background to "MARRY ME." Through song, RAMON's shyness vanishes and gives rise to his natural tenor voice. He is now a leader of his group of mariachis. He is in the world of lovers as his voice rises and rises asking for ISABEL'S hand in marriage. Again the VILLAGERS become the CHORUS.
RAMON (Sings, "MARRY ME.")
THE FIRST TIME I SAW MY DESTINO,
I WAS A BOY OF THIRTEEN,
WATCHING A PRINCESS,
FLOAT BY ON A SWING SET,
HOW I WISHED SOMEDAY WE'D MEET.
SHE WAS AN ANGEL FROM HEAVEN,
SHE WAS AN ANGEL TO ME,
WHEN HER EYES MET MY EYES,
I DON'T THINK SHE REALIZED,
THAT MY HEART WOULD SURE LOSE IT'S BEAT!
ISABEL WILL YOU MARRY ME PLEASE,
ISABEL YOU ARE ALL THAT I NEED,
ISABEL WHEN I TOUCH YOU I TREMBLE INSIDE,
ISABEL WON'T YOU PLEASE MARRY ME,
ISABEL WON'T YOU PLEASE MARRY ME,
ISABEL WON'T YOU PLEASE MARRY ME.
The song comes to an end and for a moment there is an embarrassing silence, until finally RAMON manages to utter…
RAMON
Isabel?
ISABEL slowly rises from the bench and stoically comes to RAMON. And then a beautiful smile encompasses her face as she places her arms around RAMON's neck. She kisses him.
ISABEL
Will I marry you? I have wanted to be with you since
I was ten years old. Will I marry you? Yes, Ramon. Yes!
RAMON and ISABEL embrace again as the VILLAGERS applaud and yell out:
VILLAGERS
Bravo, Ramon! Brava, Isabel!
EDUARDO and FELIPE play, "THE FIESTA SONG," a song of gaiety, until their joy is suddenly interrupted by the voices of the COYOTES. COYOTE 1 approaches mockingly.
COYOTE 1
Bravo, Ramon! Brava, Isabel!
COYOTE 2
And how will you support this girl, Ramon? You will
pick grapes in this valley until the day you die.
COYOTE 1
Maybe he can feed her the songs he sings.
ISABEL
Don't listen to them Ramon. They are evil men.
COYOTE 1 raises his hand as if to slap ISABEL.
Quickly EDUARDO and FELIPE move to attack the MEN but are stopped in
their tracks by RAMON's voice. He approaches the COYOTES without any fear.
RAMON points at first to the COYOTES and then at the VILLAGERS.
RAMON
You. And you. And you. And each one of you in this town have your dreams.
CHORUS (SPOKEN)
Destino!
RAMON
taking ISABEL's hand in his)
But we, Isabel and I, up here,
(points to his brain)
…and here,
(pounds his chest)
…we have something more.
Music to "DESTINO" starts here.
CHORUS AND ISABEL (Sing)
DESTINO! ARE YOU CALLING ME, DESTINO?…
COYOTES
You have nothing!
RAMON
Something comes from nada. If you believe in…
CHORUS AND ISABEL (Sing)
DESTINO!
RAMON takes ISABEL by the hand and they move center stage. Spotlight upon RAMON and ISABEL. The CHORUS and the COYOTES now in the shadows.
RAMON
(to ISABEL)
Do you believe in me?
ISABEL
As I believe in fate, I believe you are...(hesitates) You are...
RAMON
I am and you are my…
CHORUS (Sings)
DESTINO!
RAMON and ISABEL now become one as they sing the song, "DESTINO." The COYOTES slink away from such joy and disappear from the stage. The CHORUS, though involved, remain in the shadows as this has become RAMON's and ISABEL's moment.
RAMON and ISABEL (Sing "DESTINO")
THE VERY THOUGHT OF YOU,
PRESSING YOUR LIPS TO MINE,
IS LINGERING WITHIN MY DREAMS EVERY NIGHT,
AND DRIVING ME OUT OF MY MIND.
THE VERY THOUGHT OF YOU WAKING WITHIN MY ARMS,
SOMEHOW IT SEEMS THAT YOU'RE MORE THAN A DREAM,
HAUNTING ME, TAUNTING ME, THRILLING ME,
CHILLING ME, STEALING MY HEART IN THE NIGHT,
AM I LOSING MY MIND?
WHAT WOULD I DO IF THESE DREAMS OF YOU,
SOMEHOW IN SOME WAY BEGAN TO COME TRUE?
WOULD I BELIEVE ALL THE PASSION INSIDE,
OR WOULD THIS LOVE BE DENIED?
WOULD THIS LOVE BE DENIED?
DESTINY, ARE YOU CALLING MY DESTINY?
YOU HAVE BROUGHT ME MY TRUE LOVE,
THAT IS PURE AS A SWEET DOVE!
WHAT CAN IT BE, BUT MY TRUE DESTINY?
ALL THE MOMENTS TO SHARE,
WITH SOMEONE WHO CARES,
SWEET DESTINY!
As the song ends, RAMON and ISABEL
embrace. EDUARDO and FELIPE come and embrace the two LOVERS.
ISABEL
This is the happiest moment of my life.
RAMON
Sí, yo tambien.
ISABEL
There is one thing left to do. We must make plans.
RAMON
Sí! Sí! Make plans!
ISABEL
Everything must be perfect!
RAMON
Sí, sí. A perfect wedding. Oh yes, Isabel.
Yes. I am the most joyous man in Mexico.
ISABEL
Oh yes, as I am the happiest woman in toda el mundo.
So tomorrow you will go to the cantina and ask my father for my
hand in marriage.
EDUARDO, FELIPE and RAMON
OH NO!
End of Act I, Scene 2
Act I, Scene 3
The Papa Scene
A cantina owned by ISABEL'S parents, SEÑOR and SEÑORA LOPEZ.
SEÑOR LOPEZ sits at a table sipping wine and reading a newspaper.
SEÑORA LOPEZ is behind the bar cleaning glasses. The COYOTES sit at a
table in the shadows. RAMON enters with EDUARDO and FELIPE. He gestures for
them to stay in the background as he approaches SEÑOR LOPEZ. ISABEL
enters and hides herself behind the mariachis. RAMON, guitar case in hand,
approaches SEÑOR LOPEZ somewhat apprehensively. He stands before SEÑ
OR LOPEZ but the SEÑOR ignores him and continues to read his newspaper.
RAMON coughs yet is still ignored. He turns toward EDUARDO and FELIPE and
shrugs his shoulders. With hand gestures, his FRIENDS urge him to press
forward. RAMON finally gathers his courage and speaks, perhaps too loudly.
RAMON
Señor Lopez?
SEÑOR LOPEZ
(startled)
You don't have to yell young man. I am old, not deaf.
RAMON
May I sit, señor?
SEÑOR LOPEZ
When you are invited you may sit, but you have yet to be invited.
RAMON
Very well, señor. What I have to say I can say standing.
As you have known me since I was a child you know I am a man
of few words, so I will not waste your time.
SEÑOR LOPEZ
Good, then I can continue to read my newspaper in peace.
SEÑORA LOPEZ
Let the boy speak.
SEÑOR LOPEZ
You hear that woman, young man? Those are the first words she has spoken to me in a week.
SEÑORA LOPEZ
And probably the last. Tell us what you have to say, Ramon.
RAMON
Señor…lo siento. Señor y Señora, I have come…
(pause)
I have come to ask for your daughter's hand in marriage.
RAMON lets out a sign of relief. SEÑOR LOPEZ puts down the paper and smiles.
SEÑOR LOPEZ
Is that all? Mama?
SEÑORA LOPEZ
What?
SEÑOR LOPEZ
Go get the knife. The sharp one above the sink. Then go
cut off our daughter's hand. This young man wishes to marry it!
(to RAMON)
Would that be the left hand or the right hand you
are interested in marrying?
RAMON
I see you do not believe my intentions to be serious.
SEÑOR LOPEZ
Oh I believe them to be serious, but I wonder how you plan on supporting our daughter.
SEÑORA LOPEZ
Ramon is a good man, Papa.
SEÑOR LOPEZ
Goodness will not put food in our daughter's stomach, woman. You, Ramon, sit.
(RAMON does so.)
During the day you pick the grapes. On weekends you go to Ensenada and play songs to the gringos. How much can a man make doing this?
RAMON
Not much, I agree.
RAMON opens up his guitar case, removes some sheet music and places it before
SEÑOR LOPEZ.
SEÑOR LOPEZ
What's this?
RAMON
Mi sueño.(dream) It is music I have written. I will record my music here,
in Mexico, and then en los Estados Unidos.
SEÑOR LOPEZ
And where did a man like you learn to write music?
RAMON
At night, after work, I would go to the house of the patron of the winery.
There, for three years, the patroness would teach me. It may be but a sueño
ahora(dream now), señor, but like a well-tended vine, my work will one day bear fruit.
SEÑOR LOPEZ
(indicating his wife)
You see that woman over there? For years I have not seen her smile or
express any emotion.
(lifting the sheet music)
If you can move this woman, in any way, then I will agree to this marriage. Are you willing to take the chance?
RAMON
I have faith in my music.
SEÑOR LOPEZ
And I will pick the song.
RAMON
As you wish, señor.
SEÑOR LOPEZ leafs through the music and pulls out a sheet.
SEÑOR LOPEZ
Ah yes, this is perfect. As you say your intentions are serious. Sing this to her. Tell her you wrote it for our daughter.
SEÑOR LOPEZ hands RAMON the sheet music.
RAMON
"Intento?"
SEÑOR LOPEZ
Sí, "Intento."
RAMON
Do you mind if my friends join me?
SEÑOR LOPEZ
Sí. Sí. But hurry it up, I want to finish my paper.
RAMON rises and moves his chair center.
RAMON
Señora?
SEÑORA LOPEZ
Sí, Ramon?
RAMON
I have written a song for Isabel. You will be the first to hear it and I would value your opinion.
RAMON indicates the chair for her to sit.
SEÑORA LOPEZ
I would be honored to hear your song Ramon. I always thought you were a good man.
RAMON beckons EDUARDO and FELIPE to him. ISABEL hides in the corner.
The musicians strum a few chords and then RAMON begins to play
"INTENTO."
As RAMON sings a transformation begins in SEÑORA LOPEZ's face. It
becomes a glow, almost as if she is a young woman, once again.
RAMON
(Sings "INTENTO"-EDUARDO AND FELIPE sing background)
WHEN I WAKE UP IN THE MORNING AND I'M FEELING KIND OF DOWN,
AND MY SOUL FEELS IT'S ABANDONED,
IT'S LOSING ALL ITS GROUND.
I TRY AND LIFT MYSELF UP HIGH AND SAY I'LL BE ALRIGHT,
BUT WHEN I FALL AGAIN IT'S CLEAR,
I NEED YOUR LOVE TO LIFT MY HEART UP TO THE SKY,
FOR IN YOUR ARMS I FIND THAT I FEEL AS I COULD FLY.
OH PROMISE ME,
PROMISE ME, SWEAR TO ME,
TELL ME THAT YOUR HEART GOES CRAZY WHEN I LOOK IN YOUR EYES,
PROMISE ME, SWEAR TO ME,
TELL ME THAT YOUR LOVE IS FAITHFUL THROUGH ALL TIME,
OH, PROMISE ME!
IF ANGELS SHOULD COME TO TAKE YOU HOME,
AND KEEP YOUR LOVE FROM ME,
I KNOW THAT MY SOUL(IT WOULD) BE DESTROYED,
THERE'D BE NOTHING LEFT TO BE!
BUT I'D TRY TO LIFT MYSELF UP HIGH,
I KNOW YOU WOULD WANT FOR ME TO TRY.
BUT ONCE MORE I'D FIND WHAT I CAN'T DENY,
I NEED YOUR LOVE TO LIFT MY SOUL UP TO THE SKY!
FOR IN YOUR ARMS IT SEEMS THAT I,
FINALLY HAVE THE WINGS TO FLY!
OH PROMISE ME.
PROMISE ME, SWEAR TO ME
TELL ME YOUR HEART GOES CRAZY WHEN I LOOK INTO YOUR EYES,
PROMISE ME, SWEAR TO ME,
TELL ME YOUR LOVE IS FAITHFUL THROUGH ALL TIME,
OH, PROMISE ME!
As the song ends SEÑORA LOPEZ rises from the chair. RAMON is unclear of her intentions. SEÑORA LOPEZ slowly walks to RAMON, a tear runs down her cheek. She embraces him.
SEÑORA LOPEZ
You will make a good son.
RAMON
Gracias, señora. Señor?
SEÑOR LOPEZ rises from the table and comes to RAMON'S side. He says nothing at first then he too hugs RAMON.
SEÑOR LOPEZ
I am a man of my word. A deal is a deal. We will discuss a date.
ISABEL rushes out from where she had secreted herself. She first goes to her father and hugs him.
ISABEL
I love you Papa.
(and now she hugs her MAMA)
I love you Mama.
SEÑOR LOPEZ
All right. Enough of this talk of love. Can I now finish my paper in peace?!
EVERYONE laughs. With a nod of the head SEÑOR LOPEZ motions RAMON to his side.
SEÑOR LOPEZ (continued)
Did you see the señora smile? And she cried! I have not seen that in
years. Young man, do you think in time you could teach me to sing some
of these love songs?
RAMON
They say miracles do happen. Bueños noches, señor.
(to EDUARDO and FELIPE)
Vamonos, muchachos.
RAMON, EDUARDO and FELIPE start to leave. As they get to the door RAMON is stopped by ISABEL.
ISABEL
Ramon?
RAMON
Go ahead amigos, I will join you shortly.
The two MEN exit. ISABEL takes RAMON by the hand and they move down left.
ISABEL
Kiss me, Ramon.
(They kiss with passion.)
I have loved you since I was a little girl.
RAMON
Tell me again, over and over. I never will tire of hearing it.
ISABEL
I will tell you, if you tell me too.
RAMON begins "QUIERO SER," and is joined by ISABEL.
RAMON (Sings "QUIERO SER")
QUIERO SER…ME IN YOU AND YOU IN ME
HOW I NEED TO FEEL YOUR SWEETNESS,
PRESSING CLOSER TO ME.
ISABEL (Sings)
OH THE FRAGRANCE OF YOUR KISSES,
THE SEDUCTION OF YOUR VOICE,
HOW THEY EXCITE MY MORAL SENSES,
DESTROYING ALL OF MY DEFENSES,
WITH THE EMBRACES OF YOUR LOVE!
RAMON and ISABEL (Sings)
I WANT TO BE IN YOU AND YOU IN ME FOREVER AND EVER IN THIS LOVE!
ISABEL (Sings)
I ABANDON ALL MY DEFENSES,
RAMON (Sings)
AND I GIVE YOU ALL MY LOVE.
ISABEL (Sings)
JUST TO TASTE OF YOUR SWEET CARESSES,
RAMON (Sings)
I CAN'T EVER GIVE ENOUGH,
ISABEL (Sings)
I WANT TO BE ALL THAT YOUR SOUL POSSESSES,
ISABEL and RAMON (Sing)
YO, QUIERO SER.
At the end of the song they kiss once again, then hand in hand walk out the door and into the night.
End of Act I, Scene 3
Act I, Scene 4
The Coyote Scene
Evening. The cantina of SEÑOR and SEÑORA LOPEZ. ROSA is cleaning the
floor with a mop. The two COYOTES are seated at their table mocking
RAMON from the previous scene.
COYOTE 2
What a cabron (idiot)...singing to an old woman. Intento. "Grandmother, I love you."
Pass the tequila.
COYOTE 1
(Slides the bottle to COYOTE 1 and sings from "INTENTO.")
WHEN I WAKE UP IN THE MORNING
AND I'M FEELING KIND OF DOWN,
MY SOUL FEELS IT'S ABANDONED.
IT'S LOSING ALL ITS GROUND.
COYOTE 2 leans over and kisses COYOTE 1
on the cheek. COYOTE 1 cringes.
COYOTE 2
(mocking Isabel.)
"I love you Ramon. I open my legs to you."
COYOTE 1
"Quiero ser, mí compadre. I want to be a mixture of you. Your body's fragrance...
(sniffs the air)
…Now that I think about it, my good friend, your fragrance is...how should I put it?
ROSA
He stinks.
COYOTE 1 howls in laughter.
ROSA (continued)
(to COYOTE 1)
And you, you stink even worse.
COYOTE 2
You know amigo, sometimes I think the people of the village do not appreciate us.
COYOTE 1
Success my friend. We are successful businessmen and we are looked upon
with scorn. Rosa? Why do the people not like us? We merely provide a
service.
ROSA
You take foolish people's money and then lead them across the border. What happens to them? No one knows.
COYOTE 1 rises and circles around ROSA until she is now between the two COYOTES. We see ROSA clench the mop as though a weapon.
COYOTE 2
We like to think of ourselves as travel agents.
COYOTE 1
That's true! Tour guides, if you will.
ROSA
They say some of your 'tours' end up in beatings. Sometimes even death.
COYOTE 2
(smashes his fist on the table and rises)
We are smugglers! Not murderers, you perra! (bitch)
ROSA
There is a story in the village. A sad story. They say an old man and
his daughter were being led across the desert. The young woman tired
and then she ran out of water. The Coyotes...excuse me, the tour
guides, left the young girl where she fell and gave her no water. They
left her and the old man lying in the hot sun. Why would they leave
them there to bake like beans in an oven?
COYOTE 1
Water is like beauty. When it begins to fade you must expect the inevitable.
ROSA
The girl was fifteen. The American agents found her in her father's
arms. She was not quite dead. She said she was seeing visions and began
to speak to her mother. A mother who had been dead for ten years. She
died in her father's arms.
COYOTE 2
What concern is this to us? Are you accusing us?!
ROSA
If it were not you, then men like you. So you are just as guilty. You are nothing but evil.
Both men laugh as the "COYOTE SONG," now begins.. A COYOTE dance here as they move about ROSA.
COYOTE 1 and COYOTE 2 (Sing)
OH WHY DON'T PEOPLE LIKE YOU UNDERSTAND US?
YOU SHOULD RECOMMEND US ONCE OR TWICE A DAY.
FOR WE ARE JUST TWO SIMPLE PUBLIC SERVANTS TRYING TO,
FACILITATE THEM ON...THEIR WAY!
IN VAIN THEY TRY AND TRY TO CROSS TO THE OTHER SIDE,
THAT'S WHEN WE TRY TO HELP THEM ON THEIR WAY,
IT'S TRUE WE HAVE TO WORK NIGHTS AND DAYS,
BUT WE WILL NEVER ONCE COMPLAIN,
(WELL THAT'S AT LEAST TILL WE GET PAID!!!),
SO YOU REALLY SHOULD TRY AND UNDERSTAND US,
YOU SHOULD RECOMMEND US, (ONCE OR TWICE A DAY.)
WE ARE JUST TWO HUMBLE PUBLIC SERVANTS,
TRYING TO MEET EVERY NEED THAT COMES OUR WAY,
TRYING TO MEET EVERY NEED THAT COMES, OUR, WAY!
Tense music here as the two MEN start to move in on ROSA. ROSA swings the mop catching each of the COYOTES in the face. This enrages them. The COYOTES move in closer, backing ROSA towards the bar. ROSA tosses the mop at them then frantically looks about for a weapon. She finds a knife for cutting the limes on the bar. ROSA grabs the knife and as COYOTE 2 approaches her she slashes his cheek. He lets out a howl. COYOTE 1 laughs and then his face becomes a scowl.
COYOTE 1
So little girl. You like to play games do you?
COYOTES 1 and 2 brandish switchblade knives and move in on ROSA. The movements of the three are choreographed to appear as a Sword Dance.
COYOTE 2
You like to cut people's faces? You whore! Watch what we do to you!
COYOTE 1
Don't cut her yet. Let's have our way with her first.
COYOTE 2
Sí, amigo. And then we chop off little pieces of flesh so even her mother
won't recognize her.
The DANCERS move round and round, their knife blades glistening in the lights. They lunge at one another. ROSA fighting like a tigress.
ROSA
You want to take me? Let's see you try, you bastards!
ROSA lunges and slashes now cutting COYOTE 1's face. Now it is COYOTE 2's turn to laugh.
COYOTE 2
Hey compadre, we have both been marked by this whore.
The music becomes very intense as the COYOTES move closer and closer to ROSA. ROSA backs and backs away. A chair is in her path and she falls to the ground. Quickly the COYOTES pounce upon her. COYOTE 1 has ROSA by the hair, a knife to her throat.
COYOTE 1
She cut you first compadre, so you take her first.
COYOTE 2 starts to undo his pants and drops to his knees. ROSA kicks out catching COYOTE 2 in the groin.
COYOTE 2
Hold her tighter.
COYOTE 1 sits upon ROSA's chest; the knife still at her throat.
COYOTE 1
Now little girl you shall learn the consequences of dealing with men such as us.
ROSA spits in his face.
ROSA
Pigs! I laugh at you! You will die for this.
COYOTE 2
Enough talk! If she moves cut her throat!
COYOTE 2 starts to mount ROSA but before he can do anything his ears perk up.
COYOTE 1
Hurry it up!
COYOTE 2
Did you hear that?
COYOTE 1
The only thing I hear is this bitch's heart beating in fear.
(to ROSA)
Now you will see why the Pollos shake in fear. Take her!
COYOTE 2
(Rises and moves towards the window.)
I tell you I hear something.
We now hear the sound of an approaching car.
COYOTE 2 (continued)
It's the policía. Vamanos, my friend. We will save her for another day.
COYOTE 2 moves towards the back door.
COYOTE 1
You say anything puta...first we kill your mother. You will watch as slowly the
blood drains from her body. And, since you like to cut the faces of people...
(He slashes ROSA's face)
Now you are one of us.
COYOTE 1 rises quickly and hurries out the door with COYOTE 2. ROSA slowly rises, touches her face and oddly she lets out the howl of a coyote and begins in fear to laugh uncontrollably.
End of Act I, Scene 4
Act I, Scene 5
The Patron Scene
Viñedos Montaño, the home of the PATRON and his wife VICTORIA. It is
getting towards dusk as the PATRON stands downstage smoking a cigar and gazing
out. VICTORIA sits at the piano playing a soft, soothing movement. VICTORIA's
movement ends. The PATRON, SEÑOR RAFAEL MONTAÑO turns and smiles at
his wife. VICTORIA rises from the piano.
PATRON
No. Por favor, mi amor, I love when you play. Especially this time of day, with
the sun slowly setting over las montañas.
VICTORIA
(Comes to his side.)
Later my love, when Ramon arrives. He has said he has written a new song.
PATRON
Ah yes, Ramon. I need to speak to him...de hombre a hombre.
VICTORIA
(alarmed)
Rafael…did he do something wrong?
PATRON
(laughs)
Why do you women always think the worse? I need to discuss some business
matters with your young friend.
VICTORIA
What matters?
PATRON
Patience my love, patience. You will hear when I speak with him.
VICTORIA
Where is my head? Lo siento, Rafael. I forgot to tell you. Ramon asked me if
he could discuss an important matter with us tonight.
PATRON
What matter?
VICTORIA
(teasingly tosses his own words back at him)
Patience my love, patience. You will hear when he speaks to us both.
PATRON
(playfully swats Victoria)
Why did I marry you?
VICTORIA
No one else would have you.
(They laugh, hug and kiss.)
Rafael, here he comes now.
PATRON
Go, meet him at the door and then bring him straight to me.
VICTORIA
Whatever you have to say to him, please, be kind. He is very fragile.
PATRON
Go woman!
VICTORIA exits. The PATRON laughs, puffs strongly on his cigar. As VICTORIA
reenters with RAMON, the PATRON is shrouded in smoke. Slowly it dissipates and
he turns toward RAMON with a frown on his face.
(continued)
You, come here. We have some business to discuss.
RAMON
Sí, Patron...pero...
PATRON
Silencio. Let me speak.
VICTORIA
Con permiso. I will leave you men to your business.
PATRON
No, señora. You stay. I want you to hear this. Come, both of you, I want you
to see something.
RAMON and VICTORIA come to the PATRON's side, center stage. The PATRON gazes out. RAMON and VICTORIA follow his gaze.
RAMON
Patron? Have I offended you?
PATRON
I no longer need you to pick my grapes.
VICTORIA
Rafael!
RAMON
Pero, Patron. I work hard. I…
PATRON
Would you please let a man finish? Thank you. I remember when those fields were
barren. And now this is one of the best wineries in all of Mexico. Planted with
these two hands. With your father, may he rest in peace, at my side, seven days
a week. Never a complaint. And then, when good times came to us, I made him my
gerente (manager).
VICTORIA
(puts her arm about RAMON)
It was a sad day in this house when your father and mother were killed in that
dreadful car crash.
RAMON
And my Padrino (godfather) and Madrina (godmother).
PATRON
All because of that drunken truck driver. But you took it like a man. You worked
duro.(hard)
RAMON
Then why are you firing me Patron?
PATRON
Did I say anything about firing you?
VICTORIA
You said you no longer wanted him to pick your grapes.
PATRON
Es verdad. Young man, I want you to work beside Miguel.
RAMON
El gerente? (manager)
PATRON
Sí, sí, el gerente de Viñedos Montaño.
VICTORIA
What about his music?
RAMON
I have given that some thought. Son, everyone in life should have alternatives.
A back-up plan if you will. If your sueños come true, and I hope for your
sake they do, there will be no hard feelings. You can walk away from Viñedos
Montaño...no hard feelings. Agreed?
RAMON
You are a fair man, Patron. I will do my best.
PATRON
Do better than your best. Now my wife said you had something you wished to tell us.
RAMON
Señora?
VICTORIA
My dear husband, Ramon wishes to bestow an honor upon us. As you know he is to
marry Isabel Lopez in three months. He has asked us to stand up for him as though
we were his parents.
PATRON
An honor bestowed must be returned in kind.
(to RAMON)
You like the new pavilion I have built?
RAMON
It is beautiful. The rock work is the best I have seen in the valley.
PATRON
En todo el mundo, my boy. (In all the world.)
VICTORIA
The Patron also had a dream Ramon. He wishes to make this valley known throughout
the world as one of the best wine regions…not just in Mexico. You know his
love for music?
RAMON
Sí, señora.
VICTORIA
The Patron wants to use this pavilion for concerts. He wants to bring in the best
artists Mexico has to offer.
PATRON
Picture this place at night. A moonlit night or perhaps a night full of stars;
hundreds of people seated at the pavilion, and then the lights come on and the
music of our country reverberates throughout the valley of our Patron Saint,
the Virgin of Guadalupe. She...
(indicates VICTORIA)
...of course, has other ideas. Tell him.
VICTORIA
During the days we shall have weddings. A beautiful setting, don't you think?
RAMON
I could think of none better.
PATRON
I have had a talk with Señor Lopez.
VICTORIA
My dear husband often sneaks down to his cantina. His doctor has strictly forbidden
him to drink tequila.
PATRON
Bad for the stomach he says. What does he know, the fool?
VICTORIA
He also says you should not be smoking those awful cigars.
PATRON
I am seeking a second opinion on both points.
VICTORIA
And a third and a fourth until you find a doctor who says nothing of the dangers.
PATRON
Good men can be found, but enough talk of my so-called deficiencies.
You stray from the original topic.
(to RAMON)
You have asked us to stand by your side in this marriage.
VICTORIA
We would be honored.
PATRON
And our gift to you, and I have discussed this with Señor and Señora
Lopez…our gift to you is that your wedding will take place here on our pavilion.
VICTORIA
The first of many weddings to be held at Viñedos Montaño.
RAMON
Patron...Señora. I...
PATRON
Enough talk, I am told you have written a new song. Let's hear it.
RAMON
(to VICTORIA)
Will you sing with me, señora?
VICTORIA
Of course.
PATRON
How come I am never asked to sing?
VICTORIA
Because you have the voice of a frog.
THEY laugh together including the PATRON and move to the piano. RAMON and VICTORIA sit. The PATRON stands next to the piano.
PATRON
And what do you call this new work of yours?
RAMON
Patron, for some reason I feel very blessed. Isabel consenting to marry me - and
now the wedding to be held in this beautiful place. Each morning when I awake I
look forward, toward the future and I believe…
PATRON
Could you get to the point?
RAMON
Patron, I believe in miracles. And that is what I call this song, "Miracles."
I would like to dedicate this work to the señora, who has taken the time to teach
me what beautiful music can do for one's soul. Here, señora.
RAMON hands VICTORIA a piece of sheet music which he takes out of his pocket. She
spreads the music upon the piano...plays a few notes and turns to RAMON.
VICTORIA
Listo?
RAMON
Listo, señora.
RAMON (Sings, "MIRACLES")
IF I BELIEVE IN YOU,
AND IF YOU BELIEVE IN ME,
OH THE MIRACLES, OH THE MIRACLES,
WE CREATE WHEN WE START TO BELIEVE!
VICTORIA (Sings)
INSIDE A PART OF ME,
AND INSIDE A PART OF YOU,
THERE'S A WARMER PLACE,
OF LOVES UNENDING GRACE,
WE CAN FIND IT IF WE JUST BELIEVE!
RAMON (Sings)
MANY TIMES IN OUR LIVES WE FEEL SO ALONE,
VICTORIA (Sings)
MANY TIMES LIFE SEEMS HARD TO BELIEVE,
RAMON (Sings)
THEN THE HOPE THAT WE FIND,
SEEMS TO COME JUST IN TIME,
BRINGING MIRACLES THAT WE MUST SEE!
RAMON and VICTORIA (Sing)
YES, I BELIEVE IN MIRACLES,
AND I'VE SEEN WHAT HOPE CAN BRING,
THERE'S A MOMENT IN TIME WHEN WE'VE GOT TO DECIDE,
THERE ARE MIRACLES IF WE BELIEVE, JUST BELIEVE!
VICTORIA and RAMON finish their duet. Momentary silence and then the PATRON breaks out in applause.
PATRON
Bravo! Bravo! But now young man, you and I have things to discuss. Come with me
to my office.
VICTORIA
Dinner will be in a half an hour.
(The PATRON indicates RAMON)
PATRON
And set another table setting. We will have company for dinner.
RAMON
But, Patron, I am not dressed properly…
PATRON
You have clothes on do you not? That is good enough. Follow me.
VICTORIA
You make sure you don't sneak any tequila in your office.
PATRON
My boy, let this be the first lesson I give you about marriage. Women are
always suspicious…
(pause)
And they are usually correct. Vamanos.
The two MEN exit. VICTORIA laughs and then returns to the piano. She sits and plays and sings a chorus of, "MIRACLES."
VICTORIA (sings, "MIRACLES")
YES, I BELIEVE IN MIRACLES,
AND I'VE SEEN WHAT HOPE CAN BRING,
THERE'S A MOMENT IN TIME WHEN WE'VE GOT TO DECIDE,
THERE ARE MIRACLES IF WE BELIEVE, JUST BELIEVE!
VICTORIA ends and the LIGHTS slowly come down.
End of Act I, Scene 5
Act I, Scene 6
Vino Y Pan (Wine and Bread)
In the darkness we hear the voice of a CHOIR BOY.
CHOIR BOY (Sings)(VO)
SANCTA MARIA, GRAZIA PLENA,
DOMINUS TECUM, BENE DICTUS
SANCTA MARIA, GRAZIA PLENA
AMEN.
"VINO Y PAN," plays softly.
As the scene opens a large white scrim is lowered. From the various stage wings the GUESTS begin to arrive. A soft light, much like the light over the head of Jesus in Leonardo da Vinci's painting, "The Last Supper," is cast over a figure, center stage rear - a PRIEST. Many VILLAGERS have arrived including the COYOTES dressed in suits with their hair slicked back. The PATRON enters with VICTORIA. RAMON walks between them. They reach a spot before the PRIEST and stop. The PATRON shakes RAMON's hand; VICTORIA kisses him upon the cheek. The PATRON and VICTORIA move off, stage right. EDUARDO and FELIPE come and stand by RAMON's side. They are RAMON's two best men. The MEN turn as they see ISABEL enter with her PARENTS and BRIDESMAIDS. ROSA is in ISABEL's entourage and looks stunning, and ISABEL looks gorgeous in her long flowing gown, a white veil shields her face. Arm in arm with her FATHER she approaches the PRIEST. ISABEL stops and embraces her MOTHER. It is time to give the bride away. SEÑOR LOPEZ gives ISABEL a warm hug. ISABEL carefully lifts her veil (the audience does not see ISABEL's face), and kisses her Padre. SEÑOR LOPEZ wipes a tear from his cheek and joins SEÑORA LOPEZ, stage left. The wedding service now begins.
PRIEST
You may now kiss the bride.
The scrim now starts to rise in unison with RAMON slowly lifting ISABEL's veil.
With ISABEL now unveiled RAMON and ISABEL at first kiss shyly and then, at the urging
of the wedding guests, they kiss with more passion. The wedding guests applaud the
new bride and groom. EDUARDO and FELIPE first shake RAMON's hand and RAMON embraces
both men. EDUARDO and FELIPE then kiss ISABEL's cheek. The BRIDESMAIDS surround
ISABEL, laughing, hugging and kissing her. Finally the PATRON moves forward and
in a booming voice, to the wedding party and newlyweds, he pretends to admonish them.
PATRON
There will be plenty of time later for all this kissing and hugging. Señors,
Señoras y Señoritas, let the fiesta begin.
(to the mariachis)
Gentlemen, something lively and festive por favor.
The music to "COME DANCE WITH ME," begins. The GUESTS, in particular the older GUESTS sit at the various tables as the younger GUESTS pair off and dance. Some of the GUESTS surround RAMON and ISABEL applauding. The song ends and another begins. ISABEL beckons her FATHER to dance with her as is custom. It is also custom for RAMON to dance with his PATRONESS. He is unsure what to do as he shyly turns toward VICTORIA. The PATRON laughs and escorts his wife to RAMON's side.
PATRON (continued)
You have asked us to stand up for you. So now you must dance with your patroness.
RAMON
(shyly)
Señora?
VICTORIA
(taking RAMON's hand)
I would be honored, but unfortunately I have a twisted ankle. I am afraid
I will have to dance with 'El Toro' here.
PATRON
(laughs)
First you say I sing like a frog. Now you say I dance like a bull. What other
bad habits do I have?
VICTORIA
(laughs)
The wedding will be over by the time I recite them all. Rosa?
ROSA
(comes to VICTORIA's side)
Sí, señora?
VICTORIA
You remember our discussion?
ROSA
Sí, señora? Es tiempo?
VICTORIA
Es tiempo.
ROSA approaches the band and whispers to the bandleader. The bandleader smiles and motions for the band members to stop playing.
BANDLEADER
Con permiso ladies and gentlemen. We have had a special request. With your
permission?
(to ROSA)
Listo?
ROSA
Listo.
ROSA beckons a MAN from the CHORUS to her side to be her partner. The music of "TANGO DE AMOR," begins. EVERYONE begins to dance, but after a few moments it becomes apparent ROSA and the MAN from the CHORUS are outstanding as partners. The COUPLES back away giving the stage to ROSA and her PARTNER who dance together with the fluidity of a professional dance team.
RAMON (Sings, "TANGO DE AMOR")
JUNTOS AL BAILAR LA CADENCIA SIN IGUAL
SENSUAL GENIAL DE ESTE TANGO SINGULAR
QUE SIN CESAR NOS ARRASTRA AL PASAR
ESTA SENSACIÓN EN MI PROPIO CORAZÓN
ADENTRO AQUÍ IMPOSIBLE DE EVITAR
DE CONTENER Y HOY TE TANGO QUE DECIR.
QUE QUIERO AMARTE IDOLATRARTE,
MI PECHO QUE LATE IMPACIENTE DESEANDO TU AMOR,
SERÉ TU AMANTE ETERNAMENTE,
BAILANDO ABRAZADOS POR SIEMPRE ESTE TANGO DE AMOR.
The song and the dance comes to an end. The GUESTS APPLAUD the COUPLE.
RAMON
Gracias, señora.
VICTORIA
Y gracias tambien. You have proven your boast. You are an excellent dancer.
The PATRON walks to the bandstand and the bandleader hands him the microphone.
PATRON
And now gentlemen, it is time for El Baile del Billete. Isabel, come center
por favor.
Note: Traditional dance at weddings where the bride dances, in turn, with several men of the wedding party, who each pin money to her gown.
The music of FLORENCIA'S WALTZ begins. ISABEL comes center stage and starts off dancing with RAMON.
RAMON
You are happy?
ISABEL
Very.
The COYOTES have moved in close to hear the newlywed's conversation.
RAMON
I promise you someday we will have a home like the Patron.
ISABEL
As long as I have you...that's all I care about.
RAMON
Isabel, I have saved money...thousands in American dollars. Soon I will
have enough saved and I will go to Los Angeles and record my songs.
This perks up the ears of the COYOTES.
ISABEL
And how will you get into los Estado Unidos? Immigration is difficult with
the Americans at war.
RAMON
I will find a way.
ISABEL
Make me a promise.
RAMON
Anything.
ISABEL
When you go to los Estados Unidos, I will go with you.
Before RAMON can respond EDUARDO cuts in...and then FELIPE. Then the rest of the MEN all pinning money to ISABEL's wedding dress. This truly gets the COYOTE'S attention.
COYOTE 1
What do you think?
COYOTE 2
Ask her to dance. Move her toward me and I will do the rest.
COYOTE 1 cuts in and moves towards COYOTE 2. COYOTE 1 moves ISABEL into a position where he believes their actions will be unseen. COYOTE 2 slyly removes some dinero from the back of ISABEL's dress, winks at his partner and moves away. Another MAN cuts in on COYOTE 1 who pins a dollar to ISABEL's dress and moves to COYOTE 2's side.
COYOTE 1
Well?
COYOTE 2
A few hundred.
COYOTE 1
I love weddings.
Both MEN laugh but their laughter ceases when they are grabbed by the hair by the PATRON and dragged out of sight of the other guests.
PATRON
(to COYOTE 2 in a very calm voice)
I believe you have something that does not belong to you.
COYOTE 1
Let us go! We didn't do anything!
PATRON
(Bangs the COYOTE's heads together. Angrily)
Silencio! Another word and you shall truly feel my anger!
(to COYOTE 2 )
Take the money from your pocket and place it in mine.
COYOTE 2 does as instructed.
COYOTE 2
(sheepishly)
An honest mistake.
PATRON
Did I not tell you to be silent!
(He bangs their heads together again.)
Leave Viñedos Montaño. Now! If I ever see you on my land again I will have you whipped until your skin falls off. Go!
First the PATRON releases the wobbly COYOTE 1 and boots him in the butt. He repeats his actions with COYOTE 2. Both COYOTES flee in fear. VICTORIA comes to the PATRON's side.
VICTORIA
Problems, mi amor?
PATRON
No problems my love.
VICTORIA
Who were those men?
PATRON
What men?
VICTORIA
The men you just kicked in the ass.
PATRON
Oh, those men. They had the wrong wedding. I merely showed them the proper
direction to their party.
VICTORIA
Another of your bad habits.
PATRON
What's that?
VICTORIA
Stretching the truth.
(laughs)
Did you kick them hard?
PATRON
They will not be sitting comfortably for a time.
The PATRON and VICTORIA laugh and return to the party. EDUARDO has now taken the microphone.
EDUARDO
Ladies and Gentlemen...a moment if you please.
(The GUESTS are silent.)
EDUARDO (continued)
First of all on behalf of the bride and groom, I would like to thank Señor
and Señora Montaño for providing this wonderful setting for the wedding.
The GUESTS APPLAUD as the PATRON and VICTORIA regally bow their heads acknowledging the crowd.
EDUARDO (continued)
Before me you see a table full of the best wines Viñedos Montaño has
to offer. Please everyone take a glass. It is time for a toast.
EVERYONE goes to the table and takes a glass.
EDUARDO (continued)
Our first toast will be to this wonderful country of ours. Viva Mexico!
GUESTS
Viva Mexico!
EDUARDO
And now will the bride and groom come forward.
(They do so.)
Ramon...Isabel.
May your vows be forever.
May you find true happiness in life.
And may you bear strong, healthy and intelligent children who hopefully will inherit
their mother's looks.
(Laughter from the GUESTS.)
Ladies and Gentlemen. A toast. To Ramon and Isabel Ortíz.
GUESTS
To Ramon and Isabel Ortíz.
EVERYONE drinks a toast.
EDUARDO
And now let the party begin.
(to the band)
Por favor.
The band begins to play the music of "COME DANCE WITH ME," and
as a LIGHT focuses on SEÑOR AND SEÑORA LOPEZ who are seated at a
table. All the ACTORS on the stage freeze in place.
SEÑOR LOPEZ
Everyone looks so happy, except for you, woman. Can't you smile at your
daughter's wedding?
(silence)
Are you never going to speak to me again?
(silence)
I look at all these people. When did this begin, not speaking to one
another?
(pause)
Woman, I am trying to talk to you!
(momentary silence)
SEÑORA LOPEZ
I am not a 'woman'. I have a name.
SEÑOR LOPEZ
Do I look like an imbecile? Of course you have a name.
SEÑORA LOPEZ
Then try using it.
(momentary silence)
SEÑOR LOPEZ
Angelina.
SEÑORA LOPEZ
Was that difficult?
SEÑOR LOPEZ
Angelina. Por favor. I am trying to understand all this. Why did you stop talking to me?
SEÑORA LOPEZ
When you stopped listening to what I have to say...or caring about my feelings...only your own.
SEÑOR LOPEZ
We...I mean, I...have to change this thing we have...I mean, I have created. Do you love me?
SEÑORA LOPEZ
I don't know.
SEÑOR LOPEZ
I am trying, Angelina, truly I am.
SEÑORA LOPEZ
Then talk to me. Tell me what you feel. Listen when I tell you my feelings,
then maybe we can find what we had when we married. You remember how happy
we were? Dancing and singing in Ensenada. Where are you going?
SEÑOR LOPEZ has risen from the table and seeks out RAMON. RAMON and ISABEL now come to life and dance slowly, center stage.
SEÑOR LOPEZ
Isabel. I need to borrow your husband for a moment.
ISABEL
Make sure you bring him back.
RAMON and SEÑOR LOPEZ move away.
SEÑOR LOPEZ
I'm ready.
RAMON
I know you are.
SEÑOR LOPEZ
And your friends?
RAMON
Eduardo. Felipe. Venga aquí, por favor.
