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Pregones/PRTT's Parrots at The Pagoda Enters Final Days – A Drag Origin Story with Bronx Roots
- Damian Ali
- May 15
- 3 min read
Updated: Jun 10
As the final curtain nears, this musical brings Johnny Rodríguez's story from San Juan to the South Bronx and the NYC stage, celebrating identity, legacy, and the power of performance.
Parrots at The Pagoda by Krystal Pagán
Only days remain to experience Parrots at The Pagoda, the world premiere musical from Bronx-born Pregones/PRTT. Staged in Midtown Manhattan but rooted in Bronx storytelling, this "drag origin story" celebrates the remarkable life of Johnny Rodríguez — queer trailblazer, prolific musician, and brother of the legendary Tito "El Inolvidable" Rodríguez. The show runs through May 25 at the Puerto Rican Traveling Theater.
Founded in the South Bronx 45 years ago, Pregones Theater has long championed Puerto Rican, Latinx, and working-class stories. Its merger with the Puerto Rican Traveling Theater created one of New York's most vital bilingual arts organizations. Though this show takes place in Manhattan, it carries the spirit, rhythm, and resilience of The Bronx with every note and costume change.
Written and directed by Jorge B. Merced, Parrots at The Pagoda draws inspiration from the extraordinary life of Johnny Rodríguez (1912–1997) — standout trios vocalist, pioneering drag performer, club owner, and cultural icon. The musical brings his world to life through stunning visuals, flamboyant storytelling, and 15 carefully selected songs from Rodríguez’s catalog of over 200 originals.
axes, herbs and satchels: open the archives: A powerful play about Black midwives and community, makes its final NYC stop in The Bronx this May. Cast details and production insight: Read the full article here.
Parrots at The Pagoda by Krystal Pagán
"The great Johnny Rodríguez had a stellar career spanning five decades," says Merced. "He was at various times a boxer, social activist, music star, director of a touring revue of female impersonators, and owner of genderbending in-spot El Cotorrito (The Little Parrot) in San Juan." Regarded as one of Puerto Rico's first drag artists, Rodríguez's career also flourished in New York City.
Musical direction is by Desmar Guevara, with arrangements by Guevara and Ricardo Pons. The ensemble features Fernando Contreras (Bruise & Thorn) as Jongo, Bryan J. Cortés (New York, New York) as Jóngolo, Rubén Flores (¡Americano!) as Johnny, Khalid Rivera (Russian Doll) as Jínguili, and Cedric Leiba Jr. (The Marchers) as Jungu, among others. Set design is by Gerardo Díaz Sánchez, with costumes by Harry Nadal and lighting by Emmanuel Delgado.
Upcoming Events at Puerto Rican Traveling Theater
Image Courtesy of Pregones/PRTT
Fiesta Riqueña – Sunday, May 18, 3 pm performance
After the Sunday, May 18 performance of Parrots at The Pagoda, ticket holders are invited to stay for a post-show celebration. Fiesta Riqueña will feature music, light bites, and a relaxed gathering with fellow audience members and supporters.
Capacity is limited, and an RSVP is required to attend.
Location: Puerto Rican Traveling Theater
304 W 47th St, New York, NY
Image Courtesy of Pregones/PRTT
Friday, May 30, 2025 at 9:30 pm
To close out the season with rhythm and fire, Pregones/PRTT teams up with the Nuyorican Poets Cafe for a high-energy poetry 'Final Friday Slam' on May 30. Hosted by Poet Tony McPherson with live DJ sets by Luna Rósa, the night will also feature a Twilight Hour Open Mic. The event starts at 9:30 PM and continues Pregones/PRTT’s tradition of blending performance and activism. Get Tickets
Location: Puerto Rican Traveling Theater
304 W 47th St, New York, NY
June 29 marks the 45th anniversary of Pregones Theater, a milestone that not only celebrates decades of groundbreaking work, but also closes the current season and ushers in the next. If Parrots at The Pagoda is any indication, The Bronx's theater legacy remains as vibrant and necessary as ever.
Tickets for Parrots at The Pagoda are available online at PregonesPRTT.org. You can also get tickets in person at the box office. Student and senior discounts are available. Groups of 10 or more, please call 718-585-1202 or email info@pregones.org for rates!
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