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Calling Up Papi
is a coming of age story about a half Black, half Puerto Rican
girl whose father is a pimp, whose mother is a prostitute,
and whose caretaker and confidant is a drag queen. The setting
takes place on the mean streets of El Barrio's Spanish Harlem
in New York City during the 60's and 70's. Although universal
in nature, the show places an important, yet seldom seen emphasis
on Latino culture and community. And it does it with humor.
This is a comedy that weaves laughter and tenacity throughout
each act with a silken thread. Incorporating the theme of
Helen Keller's message who stated, "The best and most
beautiful things in the world cannot be seen or even touched.
They must be felt with the heart." This play touches
and moves all audiences to respond without clobbering them
over their heads. The storyline allows everyone, regardless
of their background to relate to the comedic actor's life
drama and how she overcame adversity. Lydia Nicole's message
to us is that we can all seize the internal power to transform
life's "No's" into "Yes's."
The dynamic Tata Vega lending her voice to the "Papi"
soundtrack.

The wonderful singers and crew who gave their support on
the taping of "Papi"
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photo credits: Terri
Griffin
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