Comedians are increasingly creating their own platforms to showcase underrepresented voices, and Die dreaming is one such venture.Founded by Glorelys Mora and sasha thank you, the platform is dedicated to elevating Dominican voices in the comedy scene. The duo bonded over the challenges of gaining recognition in an industry that often overlooks their perspectives, leading them to establish a space where their stories could be told without compromise.

For Merci, comedy serves as a vital means of communication and a way to address trauma within her family. She didn’t recognize her own comedic talent until others pointed it out, which than allowed her to pursue it professionally. Though, she noticed a significant lack of depiction for comedians like herself in the industry. Seeing Aida Rodriguez on “Last Comic Standing” in 2014 provided a relatable connection, highlighting the underrepresentation of Dominican comedians.

navigating Identity in Comedy

Merci highlights a constant dilemma faced by Dominican comedians: whether to assimilate into mainstream comedy or forge their own path. In the American market, stand-up comedy is often perceived as predominantly Black or white. As an American embracing her Blackness, Merci questions whether she should suppress her Dominican heritage to be more appealing to a broader audience.

“Laughter grounds the moment and transcends people’s identity and status. It’s the very thing that reminds us we are alive and present.”

The creation of Morir Soñando was driven by the need for representation on stage, aiming to move beyond tokenism and make Dominican voices the main focus. With over 42 million people in America speaking Spanish, the platform seeks to evolve the conversation around Latinidad, showcasing its diversity and inclusivity.The comedy shows are designed to embrace all nationalities,providing a space for talent to connect with a wider audience.

Morir Soñando’s Impact and Future

Launched in 2019, Morir Soñando has been celebrating Dominican comedians and their cultural heritage. Last year,the platform made history with a show at the united Palace, underscoring the importance of their mission. The next show is scheduled for July 26 at the United Palace, with plans to move to the venue’s main theater, accommodating up to 3,350 attendees, for the November show.

producing these events has presented financial challenges, with Merci and Mora often self-financing due to the difficulty of securing sponsorships for latine events. Despite these obstacles,the success of past shows and growing audience support provide hope and motivation. Merci emphasizes the need for community support to sustain and expand cultural events like Morir Soñando.