In September 2016, I conducted research for my dissertation in Havana Cuba. As part of the work I did there, I attended a number of live theater performances. The first show I attended was ¡Guán Melón! ¡Tu Melón! created and directed by Nelda Castillo. I was lucky enough to attend back to back performances and speak briefly with Castillo about her thoughts on the production. I explained to Castillo that I would be writing a review and article about the show and asked if I might be able to take a few photographs during the performance. She graciously granted her permission.
In January 2017, “Tourism, Tradition, and the Politics of Humor in the Cuban Play ¡Guán Melón! ¡Tu Melón!“ was published in the online site Words without Borders. In the article I review the production and discuss the use of the Cuban humor, choteo, in the songs, dialogue, and action of the characters. I also reflect on the stark contrast between the humor in the play and the reality of the problems the show addresses.
