The comedian and ex -book Elizardi “Eli” Castro returns to Lehman Stages with always one, a show that mixes humor, honesty and a touch of family nostalgia. With functions on Saturday, September 27 and Sunday 28, Castro invites the public to laugh at the small imperfections of life and reflect on those people who, in each family, always stand out for being different.
Known by Made in Puerto Rico, who depleted tickets at the Rican Traveling Theater port and appeared at the Kennedy Center in Washington, DC, Eli has perfected a unique style that combines English and Spanish, reflecting the experience of living between cultures and generations. His humor nourishes his own story: before getting on the stage, Castro was a fiscal and lawyer, and that experience taught him to connect with his audience, to read the energy of each room and tell stories that really resonate.
There is always one celebrates the diversity of each family and reminds us that being different is not only well, but it can be fun. Castro’s closeness with his Bronx audience, his energy and authenticity make each function a unique moment, where laughs and reflection are intertwined.
In our talk with Eli, he told us how his experience as a lawyer and his family life inspire his humor, in addition to sharing what he enjoys most when he appears at the Bronx.
What does it mean for you to return to Bronx with this new show?
It is a privilege to always return to Bronx with one of my shows, because the Latin community receives me with a lot of energy and a lot of love. For me, it is a blessing every time I go to Bronx with one of my shows.
How was the idea of always one was born and what central themes did you want to highlight?
In each family there is always someone who is different. Sometimes they call it “the black sheep”, but that does not mean that it is a bad person, but that there is someone who stands out, intentionally or innocently. In my family, that person can be my brother, my dad or even me. This show is a way of accepting that reality, of relaxing with it and of laughing, understanding that we are not always part of the major group: we are individuals and we must celebrate it.
The show explores postpania life with humor. How difficult was to find the comic in such a hard experience for everyone?
There is always comedy in the truth. We do not need to invent another reality. When one identifies with the reality of another, it is much easier to find humor, because there is connection and sympathy. There is the true comedy: in that connection where one says “Ah, she understands me” or “He understands me.” If the message is received with humor, it feels stronger and more authentic.
How is this show from your previous monologues, as Made in Puerto Rico?
Well, Made in Puerto Rico is about our inheritance and how we identify ourselves as Puerto Ricans or Latinos outside our land. There is always one more focuses on family and couple relationships, on the psychological aspect of how we sail our life. It is a reflection on being part of the major group and, at the same time, the exception. Instead of fighting it, we learn to accept it, enjoy and laugh.
The work mixes English with touches of Spanish. How do you handle that balance to connect with diverse audiences?
As Hispanics living in the United States, we have the power to speak English and Spanish, sometimes at the same time. For me, that is a superpower. I prefer to make my shows in both languages because each language gives a different nuance, but combining them creates a unique language that only we understand. That special connection with my audience is part of the magic of the show.
Before dedicating yourself to comedy you were a fiscal and lawyer. How do these experiences influence your humor?
Before being a comedian, being a fiscal and lawyer meant introducing myself to a jury and telling my story convincingly. I had to earn their attention, make them believe in me. That pressure was my school: when I became a comedian, the stage became my jury. I want my audience to believe me, understand and laugh. If they do, he won, just like he won in court.
What do you enjoy contact with the New York public, especially in the Bronx?
Your energy and passion. He inspires me and makes me create things on the stage that I did not write at home. That is the magic of art: the energy that the audience gives me, and that of Bronx is always incredible and motivating.
After always there is one, what comes to Eli Castro?
I always have another show in mind. I have a Christmas show called Gíbaro I am that I want to bring the Bronx again, if God wants. Talk a little about my career as a lawyer and my grandfather, how I transform myself into the stage and share stories that I still admire and want.
