Nathaly Rodriguez's COUNTING THE HOURS to be Presented at the 30 Minutes or Less Festival

Los Angeles audiences will soon have the opportunity to experience a provocative new solo performance titled Counting The Hours, which explores the weighty consequences of power, leadership, and moral courage. The play, part of the 30 Minutes or Less Festival, is scheduled for performances on January 23rd at 8:30 pm and January 25th at 4 pm at the Stephanie Feury Studio Theatre.

A Moment of Decision

The Core Conflict

The performance centers on a decorated military colonel standing at a pivotal moment – poised to accept a crown and become both minister and emperor of a powerful kingdom. However, at the last possible second, he rejects the throne. This decision, according to the play’s description, unleashes repercussions throughout the army and the nation, culminating in a televised address advocating for compassion over domination.

Did You Know? The play draws direct inspiration from Charlie Chaplin’s iconic monologue, The Dictator.

Artistic Vision

Written by Nathaly Rodriguez and performed by Juan Camilo Gonzalez Castellanos, Counting The Hours aims to blend political urgency with emotional depth. The play asks a fundamental question: can love truly disrupt established cycles of violence? Castellanos adapted the story, focusing on Jason Abraham, a leader from an ancient civilization who chooses defiance over conquest.

The Playwright’s Intent

A Call for Change

Gonzalez Castellanos explains his motivation for bringing this work to the stage, stating he believes the world and humanity are currently at risk – not only from international conflicts, but also from “our indifference, our inability to love and see in others the fragility of a human being.” He argues that society needs “more kindness than machines, more compassion than politics and speeches,” and that true rebellion begins within the human heart.

Expert Insight: The play’s focus on choosing compassion over power reflects a long-standing tension in political thought, often explored in literature and performance art. By presenting this conflict through a contemporary lens, the work invites audiences to consider the personal and societal costs of both domination and empathy.

Potential Future Impact

If Counting The Hours resonates with audiences, it could spark conversations about the nature of leadership and the role of compassion in international relations. The play’s exploration of rebellion against a military machine may also inspire reflection on individual responsibility in the face of systemic injustice. Further performances or adaptations could expand the play’s reach and impact, potentially leading to broader discussions about peace and non-violence.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the 30 Minutes or Less Festival?

The play is being performed as part of the 30 Minutes or Less Festival at the Stephanie Feury Studio Theatre in Los Angeles.

Who wrote Counting The Hours?

The play was written by Nathaly Rodriguez and is performed by Juan Camilo Gonzalez Castellanos.

What inspired this performance?

The performance is inspired by Charlie Chaplin’s monologue, The Dictator, and reimagines its message for a contemporary global audience.

How might a leader’s decision to prioritize compassion over power reshape the course of history?

Nathaly Rodriguez’s COUNTING THE HOURS to be Presented at the 30 Minutes or Less Festival