World Premiere of “Am I Roxie?” Explores Caregiving Dilemmas NOW
BREAKING: The world premiere of “Am I Roxie?” at the Geffen Playhouse is captivating audiences with its urgent exploration of caregiving challenges. Roxana Ortega, a talented actress and alum of the Groundlings Theatre, shares her deeply personal journey as she navigates the complexities of caring for her mother, Carmen Ortega, who is battling Alzheimer’s disease.
Ortega’s one-woman show, which opened on October 15, 2023, delves into the emotional turmoil faced by caregivers, particularly within the Latino community. Following the sudden death of her father, Ortega found herself unprepared for the harsh realities of her mother’s declining health. This performance resonates with many, reflecting the pressures of familial duty and the sacrifices often made by women, especially those from immigrant backgrounds.
“Am I Roxie?” is not just a performance; it’s a heartfelt narrative that speaks to anyone grappling with similar issues. Ortega’s mother, who had once sacrificed her own dreams of acting to raise a family, now requires assistance, forcing Ortega to confront the cultural expectations that demand she care for her own. “We take care of our own,” Ortega recalls, battling her inner critic as she makes the painful decision to move her mother into an assisted-living facility in Los Angeles.
The show’s relatability is amplified by Ortega’s candid storytelling. She humorously describes the stark choice between “sad Marriotts” and “sad La Quinta Inns” as options for senior facilities, illustrating the daunting task of finding suitable care. Ortega’s energetic performance style, dressed for comfort in an athletic jumpsuit, invites the audience into her world, making the heavy subject matter both accessible and engaging.
In her quest for understanding, Ortega reflects on her childhood memories of her mother improvising operas while cooking breakfast. These moments serve as a poignant backdrop to the present, where Ortega grapples with the reality of her mother mistaking her for a sister. This existential dilemma illustrates a broader human experience, prompting audiences to confront their own fears about aging and familial responsibilities.
Under the direction of Bernardo Cubría, the production prioritizes emotional connection over elaborate visuals. Ortega’s ability to engage with the audience transforms the theater into a space of shared vulnerability. She confesses her fears of failing her mother, revealing her humanity and inviting viewers to reflect on their own familial bonds.
The show is structured around the theme of the “Circle of Life,” drawing references that resonate deeply with audiences, though Ortega acknowledges the inherent corniness of the notion. Still, the message is profoundly relevant: as one generation ages, the next must step up, often in ways that feel overwhelming.
As the performance continues to run, audiences are encouraged to witness this urgent conversation about eldercare that many prefer to keep hidden. “Am I Roxie?” is not just a personal essay on stage; it’s a rallying call for recognition and compassion toward caregivers everywhere.
The emotional weight of Ortega’s narrative, combined with her engaging performance, ensures that “Am I Roxie?” is a must-see for those grappling with similar struggles. It serves as a reminder that while the challenges of caregiving can feel isolating, they are also universal, sparking conversation and connection among those who care for their loved ones.
Don’t miss this chance to experience a story that is both timely and timeless, reflecting the realities of love, sacrifice, and the indelible bond between mothers and daughters.
