Canyon

Reviewed by Julia Stier
IAMA Theatre Company and the Latino Theatre Company
Through March 24

IAMA Theatre Company, in association with the Latino Theatre Company, presents the world premiere of Jonathan Caren’s Canyon. This timely play exposes the hypocrisy of even the most well-intentioned people by examining just how far some individuals are willing to go to save their own skins.

Jake (Adam Shapiro) and his wife Beth (Christine Woods) are proud do-gooders. They are ethical, liberal, and definitely not racist. However, when their handyman, Eduardo (Geoffrey Rivas), suffers a fall while working on their property, self-preservation takes over. Out of fear of a potential lawsuit that could ruin them, and at the urging of Jake’s friend, Will (Brandon Scott), the couple goes over all of their options.

Shapiro effectively amps up the quirkiness as “house husband,” Jake, and plays well off Woods as his wife Beth. Squabbling couple Will and wife Dahlia (Stefanie Black) stir up an apropos atmosphere of stress, contributing to the play’s crucible of problems. Rivas is wonderful as the hardworking, tenderhearted Eduardo, and his relationship with his son Rodrigo (Luca Oriel) adds another layer of depth, bringing heart to the story.

The show does a good job of creating tension in the first half, and there is an unsettling undertone to the interactions between Eduardo and Jake. However, the constant hints at Jake and Beth’s political beliefs at times feel a bit forced.

Canyon tells a touching tale that highlights family and the sacrifices we make for the ones we love. It also does a wonderful job of exposing how quickly people abandon practicing what they preach when they feel trapped.

The Los Angeles Theatre Center, 514 S. Spring St., Downtown L.A.; Thurs.-Sat., 8 p.m.; Sun., 4 p.m.; through Mar. 24. (866) 811-4111 or www.thelatc.org. Running time: 85 minutes with no intermission.