2 minute read
2023 BEST GAY REALTOR
from Out and About Puerto Vallarta Winter/Spring 2025 - The Stories Shaping Vallarta
by Out and About Puerto Vallarta - LGBTQ Puerto Vallarta Magazine
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Born in Venezuela, Luis's passion for performance ignited when he was 19-years-old. His journey to Puerto Vallarta came in stages, the last of which he decided he would become a resident. He spent time here as a dancer, where he swiftly ascended the ranks, becoming a sought-after choreographer, event producer, and costume designer.
He isn’t one to bask in the spotlight. And you may not quickly recognize his name. But if you’ve seen the Lady Gaga show or Freddy Mercury show at The Palm, you have seen some of his costume design work.
This past year Luis has taken on the challenging role of theater producer. His latest venture, at Coco Cabaret, has become a theatrical innovation. Two of his productions, "The Beatles – Twist and Shout" and "Diamonds – A Marilyn Celebration," have captivated audiences with their stunning visuals, performances, and innovative storytelling.
"The Beatles – Twist and Shout" is a nostalgic journey through the Fab Four's iconic music. With a talented band and energetic dancers, the show recreates the magic of the Beatles' live performances. Luis's meticulous attention to detail ensures that every aspect of the production, from the costumes to the lighting, is executed with precision.
"Diamonds – A Marilyn Celebration" is a tribute to the legendary Marilyn Monroe. Luis's deep admiration for the iconic actress inspired him to create a show that celebrates her beauty, talent, and enduring legacy. With a talented cast and a stunning set design, the show takes audiences on a journey through Marilyn's life, highlighting both her triumphs and her struggles.
Luis is an avid fan of Marilyn’s and based some of the show on the NBC series “SMASH”. In the show, a songwriting duo tries to create a hit with a Broadway musical based on the life of Marilyn Monroe.
“Marilyn is so special,” he said. “She had such a difficult life and was often misunderstood. The show I’m producing focuses on the special moments she had in her life and not so much on her suffering. She is iconic and still so present in our culture.”
It took him three months to prepare the Marilyn story and ready it for the stage. He rehearsed with the cast for three to four hours a day, almost everyday during those three months.
The lead who plays Marilyn Monroe, Paris Aguilar, was sought after by Luis.
“I saw her perform many years ago in Venezuela," he said. “I knew she would be perfect for the role so I pursued her. It took awhile but we finally landed her for the role and she’s fantastic.”
Beyond his work as a producer, Luis is also a gifted costume designer. His innovative designs have transformed countless productions, elevating them to new heights. With a keen eye for detail and a flair for the dramatic, he creates costumes that are both beautiful and functional.
“I have a lung condition and I needed to isolate myself during the pandemic,” he said. “I needed work and so I learned how to sew with the help of my friend (and now his assistant) Alejandro Rodriguez. He is an amazing seamstress, and he’s very meticulous.”
He and his team at Meraky IR Producciones have created costumes for many of the shows that you see in Puerto Vallarta, including Swan Lake, the Nutcracker, Boys on Fire, Temptations, Beyonce, and more.
He said his learning curve was steep - a new theater with a new cast in the Marilyn Monroe show, had its challenges, but he gives credit to three people who have helped him - Sebastian Coronel, Chris Lopez and Mark Rome.
“They have each taken so much time to explain how things work in theater,” he explained. “Chris created all of the visuals you see in my shows. Mark is an expert and has provided so much guidance on every level. And it was Sebastian’s idea that I expand my creative skills and give theater a try.”
He said he was so happy he stepped out of his comfort zone and loves his new home at Coco Cabaret. outandaboutpv.com