Theater Thursday - Parrots at the Pagoda

We received complimentary tickets to Parrots at the Pagoda for review purposes. Any and all opinions expressed here are our own.

What: Parrots at the Pagoda

Where: Puerto Rican Traveling Theater

             304 W. 47th St.

             New York, NY

Who: Recommended for Ages 16 and Up

When: Through May 25, 2025

Parrots at the Pagoda is the story of real-life drag artist, singer, composer, and impresario, Johnny Rodriguez. The show takes place as Johnny looks back on his life while a gaggle of drag queens take turns enacting the role of Johnny and others in his life. This play with music is loaded with the songs of its subject, along with one Cab Calloway song. The latter is a highlight of the show as the audience is encouraged to sing along.

The show is presented bilingually. Most of the dialogue is in English, and the songs are in Spanish. Monitors in the theater visually translate so even those not fluent in both languages can easily follow along. The songs wouldn't work in English anyway. The words don't sound as meaningful or pretty when translated.

The show is vibrant, lively, and colorful thanks to the spirited performances of its cast and the gorgeous costumes, especially the incredible headdresses of the drag queens. It provides a fascinating look at a performer many people are probably unfamiliar with. Whether you are or not, you can still enjoy the story of this trailblazing artist.

And that's our view. For more about Parrots at the Pagoda or to purchase tickets, visit pregonesprtt.org/2024/09/04/parrots-at-the-pagoda-2025.

Tune in Saturday for Still More Theater Saturday.

Photo credits:

All Parrots at the Pagoda production photos by Krystal Pagan

Images used in this post have been sent to us from publicists, artists, and/or  PR firms and are used by permission. If there is a problem with the rights to any image,  contact us here, and we will look into the matter.