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paul yen · Ages 18+ · United States of America

one person show world premiere
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Review by DIANA VO

June 20, 2017 certified reviewer

What I liked

I loved the topic— it’s one of those things that need to be talked about but isn’t because people are so uncomfortable talking about race and representation. I love that it’s discussed in a way that humorous, creative, honest and vulnerable that also rings as artistic and talented. It’s clear that it’s a passionate topic and seeing how the monologue is delivered so perfectly is a rare treat. There was maybe a split second where he broke character but it was completely appropriate which made it endearing actually.

I can’t wait to see him make it to the big leagues. Hollywood needs a guy like Paul front and center.

What I didn't like

I would’ve liked for more of the audience to be told that the show is interactive. It’s natural for an artist to respond and truly glow when it’s clear that the audience is enjoying the piece and when there was audience participation, Paul took it in masterful stride. I’d love to see everyone in the room max out participation mainly to see how skillful Paul can be on stage.

My overall impression

Based off of the title, I had a vague idea of what I was getting into in terms of topic and comedic value. Watching this as more of an academic and less of a comic fan, I found incredible appreciation for how he weaved a potentially complex and heated topic into a presentation that was easy to empathize with and truly enjoy. I highly recommend it to comic book fans and academics alike. This needs to be seen by EVERYONE.

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