Tryst And Shout

Trysts in Toledo, luckily, is not about sexual exploits in Northern Ohio. That particular subject matter would perhaps be best tackled by the Coen brothers in a sprawling film with bleak panoramas and pitch-black humor. And while this would probably be a given for Oscar contention, it maybe wouldn't work so well on a stage in Dallas. The better alternative would be the classic comedy by renowned Mexican playwright Sor Juana Ines de la Cruz. This 17th-century nun was an intellectual, a humanitarian and a witty precursor to the likes of Dorothy Parker. De la Cruz is also widely considered to be Mexico's first feminist, writing complex morality plays that addressed women's issues like prostitution, as well as more light-hearted fare such as Trysts. The play tells the story of Dona Ana, a young woman whose quest to help her brother find love is complicated when the object of his affection attempts to abscond with the man that Dona Ana loves. Three's Company-style shenanigans ensue, leading to a surprising, happy and very un-Coen-like ending. The play, updated and translated by local theater legend Jac Alder, runs through January 18 at Theatre Three, 2800 Routh St. Performances are at 7:30 p.m Thursdays and Sundays; 8 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays; and 2:30 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays. Tickets are $10 to $40. Call 214-871-3300 or visit theatre3dallas.com.
Thursdays, Sundays, 7:30 p.m.; Fridays, Saturdays, 8 p.m.; Saturdays, Sundays, 2:30 p.m. Starts: Jan. 1. Continues through Jan. 18, 2009