My Own Private River Phoenix

Very well done. She spoke from a very vulnerable place and it was easy to connect with her story. Great work :)... full review

This show was thoroughly entertaining and engaging from start to finish-- there were no boring or wasted moments. The humor was extremely high quality and extremely clever (and often good naturedly sarcastic). Beyond being entertaining, the story made many poignant points about human relationships and cultural gaps... and the ultimate message of empowerment came across solidly. ... full review

Set against the backdrop of childhood fantasy meeting adult reality, this is a highly personal yet relatable account of self-discovery; a coming to America story marked by vulnerable fragility and the incredible strength of unyielding determination. ... full review

This one woman show was very entertaining and clever. I thought the way she executed each character was creative and believable. Her story of immigrating to the US was relatable even if you've lived in sunny CA all your life. Serious subject, but with a lot of humor. I highly recommend this performance. ... full review

Amazing show, stunning performer, true emotions displayed stunningly in addition to hilarious characterizations and humor...! This was also exceedingly well-directed from someone who has done many of these. Every aspect seemed portrayed to its fullest realization.... full review

An incredible show. Hilarious, emotional, and everything in between! Ai Yoshihara is a master of storytelling. ... full review

One person's journey to America. Nuanced in its storytelling of East meets West. Would highly recommend.... full review

Ai's obvious acumen in story telling is on display. Her sharp humor avoids the sentimentality that often happens with solo performance autobiographies. The sad tale of her marriage and betrayal at the hand of her ex, gave a touching view of her bravery and humor without self-pity. It is the story of an immigrant rising. She is her own rising Phoenix.... full review

Very solid one-person show. Ai is a great story teller!... full review

Ai wanted to leave Japan for America in order to meet her River Phoenix, the iconic American actor who died tragically young and whose sensitivity sparked a desire in this 9 year old little girl. She wouldn’t settle until she met her idol in an American white male who would resemble River Phoenix and, one fine day, her dream came true. Or was it her nightmare?... full review