Black When I Was A Boy

I was so moved by Cooper Bates story and how beautifully he shared his story during the incredible one-man show, Black When I Was a Boy. Cooper Bates has done the hard work of making meaning of his suffering and turning it into art that touches others. The feelings I had while watching Black When I Was a Boy ranged from sadness to laughter. Cooper Bates' talent was apparent when watching him play the many different characters that impacted him during his childhood. He channeled his 6th grade teacher so beautifully and a few minutes later, created an opportunity for the audience to see the nuances in interactions with a peer that made room for the audience to see beyond the flaws in this particular peer. I highly recommend seeing Black When ... full review

This show is well produced, well written, well acted and profoundly poignant. The pacing of the storytelling combined with the dramatizations of the events touched me. I felt like I was there with the character and I was deeply moved. Bravo and thank you for sharing your unique perspective. Your message reveals the pain of racism while giving us the message that there is hope and the potential for goodness, love and connection in all of us. Thank you! I recommend this show for every adult human. It is a heart, mind, eye opener! It is also funny and very entertaining as well! You'll have great time, I promise!... full review

Cooper Bates embodies young and old, black and white, male and female. These skillful acting transitions are in service of his story about growing up in a predominantly white community and navigating shame and isolation into a place of connection and self-pride. Besides the skillful acting and engaging storytelling, the thing that stays with me is his realization that by being oneself, real changes can be made with those around you. Especially because in the current reactionary American climate I tend to get fed up quickly with people who are "conservatives". Perhaps a less quick trigger and communication effects greater change than rage over prejudice and strong difference.... full review

Plenty of stories to share with those of us that haven't grown up as a young black boy in a white world...so touching and yet hilarious...Cooper has shared his experiences in such a heartfelt way that you can't help but want to see it again and have as many friends as possible see it!!! ... full review

Cooper Bates is amazing. I mean: mind blown and still taking it all in. ... full review