What I liked
The opening sequence of floor pattern (to use a viewpoints term) moved me to tears. I saw dreams, hopes, fear, insecurities and excitement in the actors and they didn’t even need to speak a line of text. There was an authenticity to both of these actors hero’s journey. At it’s core, the stories are about identity, assimilation, sacrifice and love of oneself. It’s a privilege to forget and to leave one’s own culture and traditions. This piece of theater captures that feeling.
I appreciate how the theme of sacrifice was handled. I wish my immigrant father could have seen this show; I believe he would have teared up, just like I did.
What I didn't like
Other than technical aspects of the preview, I can not say much. The piece functioned well in the space. Minor tech issues but nothing from a staging, directorial or dramaturgical standpoint.
My overall impression
As the son of an immigrant, and first generation American this dual-solo show left an impact on me. I find great value in immigrant stories, stories of survival and struggle, stories of feeling that no matter what, no matter where – sometimes it just feels like you don’t fit in, like you got one foot in and one foot out of your own identity, customs, traditions and culture while trying to seek acceptance as an alien in another world.
Diya Kumar takes great care of her audience as she opens her heart, and pours her soul for us to examine. She tackles some triggering topics and events with delicate care,
Oqalile Tshetshe stage presence and charisma needs to be studied. He’s effortless in delivery and challenges the audience to do something they already assume is difficult and that is – to try.
I see a great future for both these young actors.
