Elevating Dominican Voices in Comedy: The Morir Soñando Movement

Sasha Merci, a first-generation Dominican American actor, comedian, and viral digital creator, shares her journey of co-founding Morir Soñando, a platform dedicated to amplifying Dominican voices in the comedy scene. Merci's personal experiences and the challenges she faced as a Dominican comedian inspired her to create a space where her community's unique perspectives and stories could be celebrated unapologetically.

Empowering Dominican Comedians to Shine on the Stage

Forging a Connection and a Vision

Sasha Merci's initial encounter with fellow emerging comedian Glorelys Mora in the comedy scene was a pivotal moment. Merci was captivated by Mora's ability to capture and materialize people's need for expression through comedy. Their shared experiences and challenges as Dominican comedians sparked a deep connection, and they soon bonded over their desire to create a dedicated platform that would elevate Dominican voices in the industry.

Addressing the Lack of Representation

Merci had long felt that the comedy scene was missing an authentic representation of Dominican voices. While the industry is vibrant and diverse, Dominican comedians often lacked a platform that celebrated their unique perspectives and experiences. This gap in representation motivated Merci and Mora to establish Morir Soñando, a venture born out of necessity and a profound love for their culture.

The Power of Laughter and Healing

Merci's personal journey with depression and the role that humor played in her life underscores the transformative power of comedy. She believes that laughter can ground the moment, transcend people's identity and status, and remind us of our shared humanity. Comedy, she argues, is a powerful tool that can bring awareness to difficult topics with levity, supporting mental health and helping individuals navigate life's most challenging moments.

Navigating the Crossroads of Identity

As a Dominican American comedian, Merci has grappled with the question of how to balance her Blackness and her Dominican heritage in the American comedy landscape. She has found solace in the raw and honest comedy of Black American comics, but she also yearned for a space that celebrated the diversity of Latinidad, recognizing that it is not a monolith but a rich tapestry of experiences.

Launching Morir Soñando: A Celebration of Dominican Culture

Merci and Mora's vision for Morir Soñando was to create a platform that would elevate Dominican voices and showcase the rich cultural heritage and humor that springs from it. In 2019, they launched their first show, which was a resounding success. Last year, they made history with a sold-out performance at the United Palace, an achievement that underscored the importance and impact of their mission.

Overcoming Challenges and Seeking Community Support

Producing these events has not been without its challenges. Securing financial support and finding the right venues have been incredibly demanding, reflecting broader issues of representation and support for minority communities in the arts. Despite these obstacles, Merci and Mora have remained determined, driven by the success of their past shows and the growing audience support.

Morir Soñando: A Movement Towards Inclusivity

Morir Soñando is more than just a comedy show; it is a celebration of Dominican culture, a platform for underrepresented voices, and a movement towards greater inclusivity in the comedy world. Merci and Mora's vision is to create a space where Dominican talent can connect with people who might not have known they exist, while also embracing the diversity of the Latinx community.As Morir Soñando continues to grow and make strides, Merci and Mora remain steadfast in their mission, calling on the community to come together and support each other. Their journey is a testament to the power of representation, the transformative nature of comedy, and the unwavering determination to create a more inclusive and equitable industry.