‘House’ Suffers From Construction Flaws

In Stage West’s maiden production, “In My Father’s House,” intriguing questions about patriotism and bravery are raised but not well-presented. The show at the Hudson Theatre is further plagued by wooden acting, the stilted language of Elsa Coscolluela’s script and Chito Jao Garces’ stagnant staging.

Taking place during the Japanese occupation of the Philippines during World War II, this play follows the differing paths of three brothers of the wealthy Santamaria family. Miguel (Bayani M. Ison Jr.) joins the guerrilla movement, but leaves his wife (Guia Silverio) and children to the fates of war. Franco (Ke’o Woolford) accepts the Japanese invitation to become the regional governor, fearful that his refusal might mean death for his family. Carlito, who is never seen onstage, dies from lack of medical attention at a POW camp.

Although Coscolluela provocatively wonders if patriotism is really just being on the right side when the dust settles, her presentation is naively blunt and devoid of persuasive argumentation.

Garces allows some stereotypes, such as the hysterical mother who only needs “the freedom to keep my sons alive.” The only face of the Japanese occupation, Harada (Robert Shinso Ito Jr.), is played with the strident, hoarse-voiced spit and polish of old Hollywood pro-war movies.

Before the performance begins, we’re told that the language in the play is from the 1940s. Nevertheless, the actors can’t make phrases like “to assume a posture that will allow survival” sound natural and fresh. Certainly there is a need for expressing the Filipino experience, but this is a very shaky beginning.

* “In My Father’s House,” Hudson Theatre, 6539 Santa Monica Blvd., Hollywood. Thursdays-Saturdays, 8 p.m.; Saturdays, 2 p.m.; Sundays, 3 p.m. Ends Dec. 1. $15-$20. (818) 240-9014. Running time: 2 hours, 30 minutes.