At the Table

Synopsis

In At the Table by Marcos Barbosa, we delve into the strained relationship between Castro, a camp leader, and Inácio, a quiet and introspective young boy. As they sit in a snack bar, Castro attempts to engage Inácio in conversation about school and family, trying to bridge the gap between them with forced enthusiasm and paternal advice. Inácio’s reluctance and terse responses highlight the tension and discomfort he feels, providing a stark contrast to Castro’s dominating presence. The setting moves from this snack bar to various domestic spaces, each one symbolising the layered complexities of their lives.

The play navigates themes of authority, familial duty, and the yearning for approval. Castro’s overbearing nature and attempts to assert control clash with Inácio’s silent rebellion and internal conflict. The dialogue is realistic, with a focus on the mundane yet loaded interactions that reveal deeper emotional undercurrents. As the play progresses, it becomes clear that beneath the surface of everyday conversations lies a struggle for identity and autonomy, making At the Table a poignant exploration of the human condition and the intricate dynamics within a family.