Prieto starring Yosimar Reyes

Prieto is an autobiographical one-man show. Known for his frequent exploration into themes of migration and sexuality, Reyes takes his audience on a journey into his experience growing up queer in the ‘hood of East San Jose.   Through the playful, lovably naive lense of an 8-year-old Reyes, Prieto tells the story of an overprotective grandmother who recycles bottles to support her family while her grandson wonders why they can’t have money like his friends. It tells the story of chismosa vecinas (gossipy neighbors) who peek through their windows and watch as the neighborhood boys tease young Reyes for “acting like a girl.” To escape from the taunting and the daily toil, 8-year-old Reyes creates an imaginary world for himself -- one made up of books and ’90s R&B.  Reyes masterfully navigates topics that are often grave and entrenched in struggle, and he instead offers levity and celebration of becoming his full self against the backdrop of poverty, politics, and an unshakable spirit. Prieto remains unabashed and unapologetic in its critique of oppressive laws and traditions while offering truth, clarity, and above all joy.

Organized by: Living Word Project, Jose Antonio Vargas, and With You Productions