What I liked
The show dives into the complexities of living in areas of grey, such as the inherent struggle of being raised in a traditional conservative church while figuring out one’s identity. What makes this show so compelling is its ability to authentically portray the tension of taking the good from her upbringing while growing, learning, and reflecting, and passing that information along to the audience. Throughout the show, I found myself constantly challenged to think critically about topics like spirituality, colonization, land ownership, and stewardship of the land we are on.
What I didn't like
There were a few small technical issues, such as repeated audio cues and syncing with the screen behind. I also recognize that I saw this during a preview performance. I do think there is a ton of potential here, and I would love to see this piece refined and expanded. I enjoyed how fleshed out the characters you meet along their journey were and would have loved more time with them.
My overall impression
Samantha Bowling’s “MISSIONS” is a fantastic show that combines delightful chaos, terrific storytelling, and heartwarming audience interaction. It delves deep into themes of identity, spirituality, and stewardship of the land we are on. The performance is a captivating blend of humor and raw emotion, offering a powerful and unforgettable journey of self-discovery. I highly recommend it.
