The world premiere of “The Hills of California,” a new play by acclaimed playwright Jez Butterworth, is currently captivating audiences at the Berkeley Repertory Theatre. This emotional family drama, which runs through December 7, 2023, delves into the complex relationships between a mother and her four daughters, exploring themes of ambition, legacy, and reconciliation.
Set against the backdrop of the 1970s, the narrative follows Veronica Webb, portrayed by Allison Jean White, who is determined to mold her daughters into stars reminiscent of the iconic Andrews Sisters. This famous musical trio dominated the charts during World War II with hits like “Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy.” As Veronica’s health declines, the sisters are forced to confront their troubled past and the scars left by their mother’s relentless drive for success.
Director Loretta Greco Brings Personal Insight to the Stage
Director Loretta Greco draws from her own experiences as the eldest of five sisters, bringing a unique perspective to the production. She emphasizes the nuances of familial relationships and how trauma can perpetuate through generations. “How personal and slippery truth can be is what the play is exploring,” Greco said, highlighting the theme of how individual experiences shape collective family narratives.
Greco noted the complexity of Veronica Webb’s character, describing her as a mother who, while flawed, is also deeply committed to her daughters’ success. This intricate portrayal is set against the backdrop of a homecoming, where the sisters reunite as they navigate their mother’s impending death, each carrying their own burdens.
Characters and Performances Highlight Rich Family Dynamics
White’s dual portrayal of both Veronica and her estranged daughter Joan offers a compelling exploration of the familial ties that bind and divide. Joan, who has built a successful recording career in the United States, returns to her family home in Blackpool as Veronica’s health deteriorates. This return is not just physical but emotional, forcing both characters to confront unresolved issues.
“While the playwright wrote these female characters and relationships which are so rich to inhabit, it is wonderful to know the director herself had personally lived those relationships,” White shared, reflecting on her collaboration with Greco, whom she regards as a trusted guide in the creative process.
As the production unfolds, audiences witness the sisters’ contrasting personalities and paths. Each character’s journey reflects broader themes of ambition and the sacrifices made along the way. The play also underscores the impact of a mother’s ambition on her children’s lives, prompting viewers to reflect on their own family dynamics.
Greco’s direction aims to balance the play’s dramatic elements with moments of levity, ensuring a multifaceted experience. “Jez’s writing is so muscular and delicious,” she remarked. “There’s something inherently powerful about how he actively engages the past, allowing it to speak to the present without any reflective nuance.”
As “The Hills of California” continues to unfold on stage, it promises to resonate with anyone who has experienced the complexities of familial love and ambition. The production not only showcases Butterworth’s talent for crafting compelling narratives but also speaks to the enduring relevance of family stories in contemporary society.
