On Sunday, June 7th I had the great pleasure of moderating the Q&A panel at Urbano Project in Jamaica Plain for The Pineapple Diaries, a new comedic web series created, written and directed by Paloma Valenzuela of La Gringa Loca Productions.

Starring Paloma Valenzuela (as Feliz), Adobuere Ebiama (as Maíte), Inés De La Cruz (as Catalina), Leandra Rivera (as Montserrat), Danny Mourino (as Diego), Elisanett Martinez (as Reggie) and Lunara Devers (as Lorismey), The Pineapple Diaries centers around the lives of Maité, Feliz and Catalina, three high school friends in their predominantly Dominican neighborhood of Jamaica Plain.

Each going their own way after college, they find themselves back home years later in their late twenties working through everyday life and its absurdities. Love included! Upon their return, Feliz and Catalina move into Maíte’s small apartment until their next steps are figured out. Montserrat, a once best-selling author and Maite’s neighbor, seeks her own direction and always adds something to the women’s every day. Without fear and with their strong friendship, love and support for each other, we will watch them prevail in rediscovering themselves.

Authentic to form, The Pineapple Diaries was shot on location in Jamaica Plain. “It’s my love letter to JP” declared creator Paloma Valenzuela during her gracious and moving opening speech. We were treated to the first viewing of the trailer and the reactions were all positive! I saw vibrant colors, beautiful multi-hued women, JP’s flavor and facial expressions letting me know something incredible was happening. And the theme song? Rumba para los rumberos!

The Pineapple Diaries aims to demonstrate that “a majority-Latino cast show can be just as relatable” while celebrating and honoring its cast’s individual cultures. The goal is to entertain an audience from all over with the hope to reach many people. No barriers, no stereotypes. If it feels familiar, you know it’s real!

After 6 weeks and 15 days of filming, you can now view the trailer for The Pineapple Diaries. The series will premiere online later this year so make sure you Like The Pineapple Diaries’ Facebook page for all future information, including its debut!, and pictures of the cast, crew and shoots! Subscribe, Like, Share! Hashtag the Love @ #thepineapplediaries!

Wish Gringa Loca Productions, The Pineapple Diaries and all of the actors and crew members the best of luck and spread the word: The Pineapple Diaries is here!

 

Liza Zayas is a lover of writing and dancing and celebrates both as a singer and songwriter performing as Luna del Flor. You can hear her collaborative sounds and experience life through her storytelling. She invites you to dance. Her poetry seeks to initiate dialogue by intentionally expressing consequences of love, lust, ego and self-respect