Fotomatón's Play: A Darkly Humorous Autopsy of a Changing Venezuela

In the Rajatabla hall, a theatrical production named "Fotomatón" offers a darkly humorous and satirical look at Venezuelan society. The play centers on a deceased baseball player, who, from beyond the grave, recounts his family's complex dynamics over nine "innings."

The protagonist, played by José Gregorio Martínez, who also directs and produces, engages the audience directly, making them part of his story. He jokes about his own death, shot in the back during a game, and his abandoned remains, finding more amusement in speculating which family member will eventually claim his body.

The narrative unfolds through the stories of his relatives. His cousin Goyita, a "niña bien" (spoiled rich girl), embodies shame over her Caracas origins and family, despite claiming not to be racist. This character's superficiality contrasts sharply with the deeper issues explored later.

“

My family expresses its affection only when you leave this life, and that's why until you die, you don't know what they think of you.

The play then shifts to a more somber tone with the story of Uncle Carlos, who is HIV positive. He recounts his family's ostracism due to his homosexuality, which led him to migrate to New York, where his son died of the flu. The audience's discomfort during this segment highlights the play's intent to provoke thought rather than just entertain.

Finally, Fotomatón's younger brother speaks, the only one who stayed by his side in the hospital. He firmly states his conviction that his brother's organs will not be donated, revealing his membership in the "Association Against the Human Race." The play uses these varied narratives to dissect familial relationships and societal attitudes, leaving the audience to ponder the state of a nation through its intimate, albeit fictional, family portrait.

“

I know you didn't like this part of the story because I didn't make you laugh.