Manifest Pussy Celebrates World Premiere at Diversionary Theatre
In Hebrew, the word Shekhinah (שְׁכִינָה) means “dwelling” or “that which dwells,” and it refers to the manifest, indwelling, or settled presence of God in the physical world. That and the singer Shakira (for the pop crossover) were the inspiration for artist and performer Shakina Nayfack’s artistic name.
Diversionary Theatre began their new season “manifesting”. Because, as the description states, this “Glam Rock Odyssey” lends an authentic experience in various ways. Written and performed by Shakina, directed by Diversionary’s artistic director, Sherri Eden Barber, Shakina takes audiences through her journey, or as she calls it, “pilgrimage,” to gender confirmation surgery via Thailand. But now, after seeing the performance and in retrospect, it is more than that. The trip to Thailand is a pivotal part of the artist’s journey, taking us through that chapter of her life, as she explores how to cleanse both physically and emotionally, and the healing process that follows. Between jokes, emotional songs, heartfelt anecdotes, and creative puppetry courtesy of Iain Gunn & Bridget Rountree and Animal Cracker Conspiracy Puppet Co., we delve into it all with her.
The 90-minute performance with no intermission has a nice flow and rhythm that alternates word and song with a band that is behind a sheer curtain, musically directed by Jacob Yates, with Jerrica Stone as the associate music director. The songs are melodic and the lyrics are telling. Nikki (Nic) Rodriguez Villafañe’s sound had the music go through crisply, with the monologue and some sound effects.
Clifton Chadick’s set design is functional and straightforward, with cool effects projected by Nick Hussong and Sierra. There is a fan/AC system/breeze contraption that also added to the visuals as Shakina’s hair blew rhythmically along with the music, creating a sensual slide that meshed well with Sammy Webster’s lighting, which used hot pink tones placed very strategically, along with bright whites and shadowy darks.
Miguel Barragan’s costume designs? Yes, I would like to have them all moved to my closet, please. Denim, sparkles, fishnet stockings, and long lengths. It was a perfect blend of cabaret and theatre.
There are clear parallels that highlight how humans often stand as the true perpetrators of animal cruelty. What resonated with me most about this piece was its perspective. In our everyday lives, we can become so immersed in our own worlds. But works like Manifest’ pulled me out of that and allowed me to see through the eyes of another. And in doing so, it sparked empathy. That’s the true power of the performing arts.
Manifest Pussy is currently playing and has now been extended until October 19.
There is a GoFundMe to “manifest” the show’s soundtrack and have it become a reality—more information in this link.
Madison Mercado is the Stage Manager for this show.
