Cooper Bates rich and layered story telling touched me in such a profound way.
What I didn't like
Nothing comes to mind.
My overall impression
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 I Was a Boy; it is a powerful experience!