Yerma en el Caribe: Intertwined Narratives of Performance and Reality on Motherhood and Female Infertility

Abstract

Introduction. The research begins with questioning the existence of contemporary Yermas in the Caribbean, driven by personal reflections on motherhood and adoption. The motivation arises from exploring how cultural and social perceptions in the Caribbean can influence the experience of motherhood. Objective. The main goal is to explore the possibility of a contemporary and regional interpretation of the character of Yerma en el Caribe. We seek to understand how women in the region face the challenges of motherhood today and how these experiences relate to Yerma’s original narrative, placing the testimonies in the shaping of a theatrical script. Methodology. The research is based on a phenomenological approach, using real experiences of women from Barranquilla as a foundation for constructing the character of Yerma, through theatrical tools such as direct performance, constructed performance, and documentary theater. It unfolds through cultural and theatrical immersion, exploring various scenes such as the Ritual, the Lullaby, the Lament, and the Withered. Results and Conclusions. The results reveal the profound connection between ingrained beliefs in Caribbean society regarding femininity, reproductive capacity, and associated expectations. The theatrical scenes, inspired by real testimonies, reflect the complexity of motherhood and the social pressures faced by women in the region. The research culminates in a broader understanding of the Caribbean Yerma in a modern context. The importance of exploring real experiences of women to enrich theatrical representation is emphasized. The conclusions highlight the need to address the emotional and social complexities related to female fertility in the Caribbean region.