Confessions of the World's Worst Missionary

Lina Alfinito's Confessions of the World's Worst Missionary has a great title, tons of energy, and lots of heart. While I have to be honest and say that I was expecting something more along the lines of the recently popular Book of Mormon, it's much more refreshing as a theatre artist to see that people are finally going out on a limb and taking some risks. While Ms. Alfinito's show is a little rough on the edges (especially on technical side) and it takes a little bit of time for the solo performer to warm up to her audience, this show certainly packs a very honest and truthful punch that takes you on a worth while journey to the other side of the world. ... full review

The emotions run high in this production, with comedy being the dominant feature, it has splashes of serious sadness. Lina draws you into her adventure to give you a real original feel of the events she encountered on her missionary trip. Her passion is genuine as she relates to the audience how important it is to be aware of our fellow humans across the world, who live extremely rough lives, and to appreciate our lives here in America. Although not as professional as other plays may be, considering the expenses and time involved, this play is very entertaining and not one to be missed! See it for a great laugh, but bring a tissue...just in case!!... full review

One of the most impressive parts to this piece is how honestly Lina portrays herself, even (and especially) to the point of satire. The version of herself who boards the flight vs the lingering, painful questions as she tries to de-plane gave me great insight into this young artist. Culture shock doesn't begin to describe her journey, and I actually think the rough workshop form worked in her favor most of the time: the writer/performer is still processing that summer, and doesn't have much of an answer for herself, never mind the audience. Life isn't cut and dry, after school specials with the solution at the end, neither is the story Lina tells. I am still thinking about everything she said, whether I may agree or not, and thank her for br... full review

For a play that touts the author/performer's status as a Christian missionary, this is a play that first and foremost sets out to entertain and inform, not to proselytise or judge. Lina Alfinito takes care to point out the riches and benefits available to the first world, and the tragedies of bigotry and disease that have been inflicted on the third, but never in a way that condemns the audience or the world in which they live. Instead, through a deft sense of mood and pace, and a playful attitude of self-deprecation and introspection, Alfinito gives a sense that she longs for unity and understanding above all else, and is confused by the ability of the world, and of herself to achieve it in a way that's ultimately satisfying. Starting the ... full review