The townspeople having been living in their quiet Spanish village for centuries under the hechizo, avoiding aging, disease, and death. But when Tomaso decides to leave after Rosita denies him, the spell is broken. The Eights come again, offering protection in exchange for the death of one of the villagers -- one that is selected by the townspeople themselves. Two Americans have unexpectedly arrived and are invited to stay at the inn, drink the wine, take part in the fiesta, and cast their votes. While Papa tries to unite the village, jealous Obella has her own agenda. They must decide if one of the American strangers should go or one of their own. But when the votes are cast and Rosita is selected, the villagers finally listen to reason, understanding that they are not truly alive until they know that each day may be their last day. Choosing to accept what it means to live, the villagers celebrate their new freedom as Rosita finds an adventure. Full evening.
PLAYWRIGHT REID CONRAD TALKS ABOUT HIS PLAY
LOS OCHOS, A DANCE WITH DEATH
Q: WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO WRITE THIS PLAY?
A: Being a lover of fantasy and fable, I thought a Spanish version of "Brigadoon meets The Devil and Daniel Webster meets The Lottery" might be fun.
Q: WHAT'S YOUR FAVORITE PART OR LINE IN THE PLAY? WHY?
When Rosita, after the town's pact with Marco is broken, still wants to go with him.
Q: WHERE DID THE CHARACTERS COME FROM? ARE THEY BASED ON PEOPLE YOU KNOW?
A: The characters are inventions of my mind after being influenced by thousands of films, plays and books!
Q: WHAT DID YOU TRY TO ACHIEVE WITH THIS PLAY?
A: I wanted strong characters for actors and challenging choices for them to make in enacting their roles.