What I liked
After seeing so many one-person shows at HFF, this was like 8 one-person shows in one! I loved that each person had about 10 minutes to tell their story, and how the actors/speakers sometimes interacted on stage, and also with the audience. Having all 8 people onstage the whole time, listening to one another and then taking the seat of the next speaker, allowed the healing properties of presence and connection to live through the show.
What I didn't like
I’ve really had to think about this, because I SO enjoyed every element of the show and couldn’t think of what I would change. The only thing that comes to mind is that I wonder how it would be to have the speakers at the end invite the audience to consider for a moment, what their story would be. To somehow give hope and reassurance that no life is lived in vain. Everyone has a valuable message to share.
My overall impression
I was touched not only by the stories each woman told, but also by Kathleen Rubin’s concept that we all have a story to tell that can inspire other human beings. “It’s Just My Life” gives life to this notion, opening windows for the audience to briefly live other people’s realities, feel their emotions, and awaken to the oneness of humanity. The eight women on stage created a tapestry of stories, with underlying themes of connection and love. I was deeply moved, and wondered about the stories of my own life, and what value they hold for myself and others.
