In an ideal world, family is about unconditional love. We don’t question it. We feel safe. We are bound by shared memories, spontaneous rituals, and a future insulated by the people we’re closest to. Healthy families nurture respect, loyalty, and connection. But families don’t exist in an ideal world. Parents don’t necessarily do what’s best for their children, even if they want to. Misunderstanding, disappointment, anger, hurt – we suffer the deepest pain when it’s inflicted by the people we love. But family is where we begin and, like sea turtles returning to their birthplace to start their own families, we too instinctively return to family.
These stories provide insight into the ways that families define who we are. How do we fit in? Are we able to question our assumptions about self and individual family members? Can we change the script that defines and confines us? Can we claim our independence and, if so, at what cost? These stories take into account how different personalities – parents’ and children’s – from different cultures face the challenge of supporting and loving each other while holding onto self .
A woman in Los Angeles waits for her turn to “testify” at a church event. While she waits and plans what to say, the stories of her life and family blend with the trauma of her ancestors. Performed by Diana Maria Riva.
A closeted young man in Los Angeles goes on a date with his boss, then prepares for his second date, while trying to keep it a secret from his family. Performed by Remy Ortiz.
A man remembers the day his sister was born, when his father brought him to their favorite bakery. It was an idyllic time, but he realizes with age that the real world is not always ideal. Performed by Richard Schiff.
A young man develops compassion for his emotionally distant father who is dying of cancer. Performed by Miguel Sandoval.
A Chinese immigrant mother struggles to do what’s best for daughter while wrestling conflicting values in this new American landscape. Performed by Daphne Cheung.
A child’s casual remark sparks a whimsical exploration of the diverse roles fingers play in communication. Performed by Rya Kihlstedt.
A young man’s tumultuous childhood, marked by a revolving door of stepfathers leaves him yearning for closure in this journey through his past. Performed by Gary Cole.
A boy’s youth is marked by the alcoholic behavior of his parents. Performed by Tony Shalhoub.