Anna in the Tropics

By: Nilo Cruz

Narrated by: full cast

This poignant and poetic 2003 Pulitzer Prize-winning play captures 1929 Florida at a time when cigars are still rolled by hand and "lectors" are employed to educate and entertain the workers. The arrival of a new lector is a cause for celebration. But when he reads aloud from Anna Karenina, he unwittingly becomes a catalyst in the lives of his avid listeners, for whom Tolstoy, the tropics, and The American Dream prove a volatile combination.

Starring (in alphabetical order):
Alma Martinez as Ofelia
Jonathan Nichols as Palomo/Eliades
Winston Rocha as Santiago
Onahoua Rodriguez as Marela
Adriana Sevan as Conchita
Herbert Siguenza as Cheche
Jimmy Smits as Juan Julian

Also includes an interview with Jimmy Smits.

©2005 L.A. Theatre Works (P)2005 L.A. Theatre Works

Critic reviews

• Pulitzer Prize Winner, Drama, 2003

Wonderful reading of a Pulitzer Prize-winning play

A lyrical, dramatic, and emotional production of this fine, resonating Pulitzer Prize winning play. Stands up to the Broadway production of 2003. Literary, culturally specific, and yet universal. Many themes emerge. The brief but insightful post-show discussion with Jimmy Smits is a valuable added benefit.

A Pulitzer Well Deserved

Poetic, beautiful, heartbreaking and redemtive. The beat book I've ever heard. I highly recommend this performance.

Amazing performances

I wasn't able to see this on Broadway when it was being performed, but luckily found this recording with most of the original cast on Audible. While I know the play would have been amazing to see, there was a different but equally engrossing experience listening to the performances. Great cast. Jimmy Smits was especially fantastic.

Liked the emotion of the performers

It is the first time I listen to a dramatized story.
It was interesting, fun and surprising

Entertaining

This is an awesome play to listen too. Quick but to the point. loved it!