Show Recap: Embracing Imperfection with ‘NYPMD’
March 20, 2024 | By Sofia Lugo
Hey there, fellow theater lovers!
Sofia here-back at it again-with another blog!
I recently had the ✨INCREDIBLE✨opportunity to catch the last performance of “Not Your Perfect Mexican Daughter” at the Greenway Court Theatre, right on the campus of Fairfax High School(can you believe it, on a high school?!)
LET ME TELL YOU, it was an experience that left me both emotionally raw and profoundly inspired.
As I settled onto my seat at the center of the thrust stage, I couldn’t help but admire the modern and sleek design that surrounded me. It felt like the perfect setting for a story that takes place in the here and now, and boy, did this production DELIVER.
NYPMD ATE AND LEFT👏🏼 NO 👏🏼CRUMBS!👏🏼
From the get-go, I was completely engrossed in the narrative unfolding before me.
‘Not Your Perfect Mexican Daughter’ dives deep into the complexities of the Mexican American family life, shining a light on the daily struggles and conflicts faced by its characters.
Through the eyes of protagonist, Julia Reyes, we’re taken on a journey through the streets of Chicago, where cultural expectations clash with individual aspirations.
What struck me most about the play was its unflinching honesty. It doesn’t shy away from the tough stuff – the moments of heartache, loss, and despair. I’ll admit, there were times when I found myself UGLY CRY, unable to hold back the emotions(and the mocos) that bubbled to the surface. But amidst the darkness, there were also moments of lightness and humor, expertly woven into the fabric of the story.
One scene that particularly hit home with me was the quinceañera sequence. As someone who grew up in a Mexican American household, I couldn’t help but smile at the familiar traditions and cultural nuances depicted on stage(SO RELATABLE). It was both hilarious and heartwarming, a true celebration of heritage and identity.
Hey Siri-play Tiempo de Vals by Chayanne
But perhaps what touched me the most was the overarching message of the play – that it’s okay not to be perfect. Julia and her family are far from flawless, and yet, it’s their imperfections that make them so beautifully human.
As someone who often struggles with the pressure to measure up to certain standards, it was a reminder that perfection is overrated, the true beauty lies in embracing our authentic selves.
So, to anyone out there who’s ever felt like they don’t quite fit the mold – this one’s for you.
This play was incredibly empowering, showcasing how we constantly fight to be true to ourselves. It's such a powerful representation of the Latinx experience, especially for coming of age young adults. It's triggering yet healing for many of us who've gone through similar experiences and are now adults.
“Not Your Perfect Mexican Daughter” is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit, a reminder that we are all flawed and imperfect, and that’s what makes us so wonderfully unique.
As I left the theater that night, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of gratitude – for the opportunity to witness such a powerful piece of art, and for the reminder that it’s okay to be exactly who we are, flaws and all.
And for that, I’ll always be thankful.
I urge you all who haven’t read or seen NYPMD- GO DO SO YESTERDAY!