Carmela and Paulino, a vaudeville comedy duo, have fallen into the hands of Franco’s fascists troops during the Spanish Civil War. Forced to put on a performance, they rehearse their show – flamenco songs, the paso doble, and bizarre comedy routines. But as heels and castanets clatter, their own intriguing story unfolds in a riot of black humor and ghostly passion. In a world still riddled with conflict, this heartbreaking portrayal of love and loss is a poignant testimony to the inhumanity of war. ¡Ay, Carmela! runs September 15-October 9, Thursdays through Saturdays at 8 pm, and Sundays at 3 pm. Student matinees with post-performance discussions: September 23, September 30, October 6 and October 7 at 10:30 am. Call 202-234-7174 for student group discounts. Supported by the Embassy of Spain in Washington, Spain’s Ministry of Culture, the Program for Cultural Cooperation between Spain and U.S. Universities, the National Endowment for the Arts, and Acción Sur.