What I liked
I really appreciate Haig’s soft-spoken, and gentle delivery of his story. This man would make a soothing therapist to the masses. Equally impressive are the moments of the piece where his self-analyzation shows him behaviors/thoughts of which he is not proud.
At the top of the show, Haig tells the audience about the locations he will discuss. The use of projections with some of the images was effective. Even more astute are the projections with information or words of affirmation. Those are particularly meaningful.
Lastly, as a history buff, I liked learning more about the history of the Ottoman Empire, Armenia and Turkey. I will admit that this part of history is one in which I have very little knowledge.
What I didn't like
In the spirit of candor, for me, this solo show lacked theatricality. While Best. Dad. Never. has valid lessons and observations, the delivery is best compared to a presentation, nothing more.
Working with a director and dramaturg will benefit this show as it evolves.
My overall impression
Part TED Talk, part history lesson, and part stream-of-consciousness introspection, Haig “Hike” Chahinian’s solo show is a quiet, reflective journey. The youngest of three children to Armenian parents, Haig realizes that inherited trauma shapes him in unsuspecting and unsettling ways. Realizing that he is a homosexual who aches for partnership and children, his show highlights the adoption and challenges of raising of his bi-racial daughter.
Some of the self-discoveries he shares include a mantra of “Educate, Walk Away, or Make a Joke.” These three options are applied when responding to those who question him raising a child without a mother or one that looks nothing like him.
Many pearls of wisdom come out in this hour long show. But, my favorite is when Haig tells the audience to have “ownership of -isms!” They might not go away, but one must acknowledge they are present.
