The inspirational Devra Gregory

We attend numerous shows throughout the year, and there are a few that really stand out, surprise and touch us. One of these shows is Devra Gregory’s Woman in the Mirror: A Dancer’s Journey. We’ve seen Devra walking around as Michael Jackson (MJ) during San Diego Pride and CityFest so we were excited to attend her award winning show. We didn’t know what to expect besides some MJ music, dancing and costume changes. When we arrived Devra was dressed in her MJ gear and was graciously providing photo opportunities for guests who also enjoyed a selection of wine, cheese and crackers during the pre-show reception. It was a hot day so we decided to get our seats as close to a fan as possible. The set included a mirror, dancing pole, vanity makeup table and a divider that she uses throughout the show to change into different costumes.

She began the play as Michael Jackson and changed into a ballerina during “Man in the Mirror.” It’s a voyeuristic scene in which we watched her remove her makeup and clothing in front of a vanity and behind a screen with only her silhouette showing to the audience. We are then introduced to a young girl. She bares her heart to the audience and shows us the struggles that she faced in her youth and how ballet helped her cope with what she was going through with her family.

Throughout her “pre-MJ” years we see her explore other forms of dance, religion, her sexuality and changes in her relationship with her father. It’s an inspiring story about someone who took every opportunity that came her way without giving up what she loved: dance and performance. Toward the end we find out how she ended up working as a Michael Jackson impersonator. She was inspired to pursue the idea during a stint as a backup dancer in the show La Cage.

We highly recommend this show as it’s so much more than a show about a MJ impersonator. It’s about a woman who wasn’t afraid to make choices, grasp opportunities and never stop learning. You may even see parts of yourself in the show. For upcoming shows, dance class and/or to book her as Michael Jackson for an event go to DevasMj.com

In support of migrants

The 4th International Assembly of Migrants and Refugees (IAMR4) takes place Oct. 2- 4 in New York City. This grassroots initiative will bring together migrants, refugees and advocates from around the world to discuss and address the root causes of poverty and migration.

This international gathering covers issues that migrants face every day and discusses policies and strategies at the coinciding United Nations High Level Dialogue on Migration and Development. Anakbayan San Diego organized a vigil at San Ysidro port of entry Aug. 31. We joined several people in commemorating the International Day of the Disappeared as we remembered the thousands of migrants who have disappeared and have become victims of human rights violations.

The Nicky Awards 2013

Kim: During this year’s Nicky Awards, Ana was honored with the 2013 Female Personality of the Year award. I’m very pleased to see her recognized by our community as a valuable member. It’s a well-deserved honor.

Ana: I want to take this moment to thank everyone who voted for me as the 2013 Female Personality of the Year during this years’ 38th annual Nicky Awards. It’s an honor being recognized by the community.