THE PLAY: A graduate student from India expresses her reactions to life and discrimination in America, specifically the University of Virginia.

 

THE PRODUCTION: As we enter the theatre, Priyanka Shetty is already going thru her pre-show ritual. The audience is seated around the edges of the stage, creating an intimate space. Then she begins to share her experience: First as a woman in India, then as a grad student at UVA. Her adjustments to American customs provide humor, as they set up the differences that become more acute when she explores the surprisingly racist reactions she endures in academia. Shetty has a warm energy and comfortable rapport that makes the experience engaging and enjoyable. There are even some interactive elements (or elephants…you had to be there) to add to the relationship. Her writing is amusing, relatable and, as it dives deeper into the racial elements, incisive. Click here to read more about her upcoming tour, including the Kennedy Center.  Running time: 1:05 (no intermission)

 

THE POINT: Even though this one-woman show is focused on racial discrimination, writer/actor Priyanka Shetty imbues her message with creativity and charm.

 

(4.5 / 5)

 

One final performance today (Sunday) at 4pm at Firehouse Theatre