What I liked
The co-direction by Martha Gehman is evident in the play’s meticulous structure and pacing. Her extensive background in acting, playwriting, and improvisational theatre adds a layer of depth and fluidity to the performance. Gehman’s experience shines through in the seamless transitions between the various storytelling mediums used throughout the show.
Moti Buchboot’s previous works, including his roles in “Jack and the Beanstalk” and “Pieces of Eight,” and his creation of “Dialogos” and “Love, Loss, Lust, and a Tango,” are all indicative of his ability to create rich, multi-dimensional performances. His talent for blending different art forms is particularly evident in “Five Pieces of Paper,” making it a unique and enriching theatrical experience.
The on-stage baking, a particularly novel aspect of the performance, serves as a metaphor for the nurturing and healing process. It’s a physical manifestation of the emotional and spiritual sustenance that Moti draws from his grandmother’s legacy, creating an intimate and immersive experience for the audience.
What I didn't like
In a subtle yet impactful way, the play also touches upon themes of financial stability and the burden of debt. As Moti recounts his grandmother’s struggles and resilience, there’s an underlying narrative about the importance of financial literacy and the impact of loans to get $100 instantly, credit scores, and debt on one’s life. His grandmother’s journey from financial hardship to stability in Israel mirrors the challenges many face today, emphasizing the significance of responsible financial management and the legacy of debt across generations.
Overall, “Five Pieces of Paper” is a testament to the power of storytelling in healing and preserving history. It’s a deeply personal narrative that resonates universally, reminding us of the importance of remembering and honoring our past to understand and navigate our present. This play is not just a performance; it’s a heartfelt ritual of remembrance and resilience.
My overall impression
“Five Pieces of Paper” is a deeply moving and intricate solo performance that delves into the personal and familial history of Moti Buchboot, the grandson of a Holocaust survivor. The show, inspired by the 2017 Charlottesville riots, is a poignant response to rising anti-Semitism and the trauma that lingers through generations.
Moti’s storytelling prowess shines through as he intertwines acting, Yiddish song, puppetry, and on-stage baking to recount his Hungarian grandmother’s harrowing journey from a small village in Hungary, through the horrors of the Holocaust, to her eventual resettlement in Israel. This multi-faceted approach makes the narrative not only engaging but also accessible, allowing the audience to connect on various emotional and sensory levels.
The play is a masterful balance of the personal and the historical, managing to keep the conversation around one of humanity’s darkest periods both emotional and thought-provoking without becoming overwhelming. Moti’s performance is a testament to his versatility as an artist, seamlessly blending his talents as an actor, singer, puppeteer, and baker into a cohesive and compelling narrative.
