Tegwyn,
If I had a way to accomplish this I would significantly reduce the amount of reporting we use. There is no way, to my knowledge, to combine the filter capacity of a report with the usability of the My Work/Home page.
We manage situations like these with detailed training on the sort and filter options in My Work/Home. While you can't get as detailed as a portfolio, you can tailor down pretty extensively - especially with something as manual as My Priority. We also teach them how to use the search feature specific to My Work/Home.
If your user really doesn't want to use the dashboard I would suggest showing her how all the features in My Work function. If she's still bothered by the jammed up view she may be bothered enough to switch over to the dashboard.
I'm sure this idea in the innovation lab would love your votes! @Benetta Perry‚ have you seen any movement on it? Or found similar ideas?