Sinking El Diablo
by Alan Haehnel, Alan D. Haehnel

One Vermont Drama Festival judge described Sinking El Diablo as a joy to watch - full of surprises and creativity.

Set in Jungle World, an amusement park, the play chronicles the conflict between deeply religious Kaitlin, and jaded Jenna, who are both park employees.

Jenna constantly tries to poke holes in what she thinks is Kaitlin's naive bubble while Kaitlin struggles to maintain her optimism.

The turning point of the play hinges on Stevie, a young child who comes to Jungle World and bonds quickly with Kaitlin.

He loves The Congo River Ride, which ends with the tour guide shooting a hippo, who has been dubbed El Diablo.

When Stevie becomes disillusioned and depressed by the fact that El Diablo will never really be killed, Jenna and Kaitlin become unlikely partners trying to help him.

The one act has challenging roles for five females as well as several stand-out shorter parts.