Ceremony

Storytelling at it's best. The moment Michael steps on stage, he has an immediate connection with his audience. He invites you into his world and when you leave, you feel as if you actually lived it. I am not a big fan of solo shows...which is ironic because I am in a solo show. For me it's easier to perform it, rather than watch it. It just takes a lot for one person to hold my attention for longer that 20 minutes. Just being honest. That being said and not to sound too cliche but Michael had me at "Hello." I was mesmerized the entire show and I related on so many levels. Now I want to go to Peru and drink that...that..."stuff" that makes you puke. lol Ok, maybe not. Michael's "trip" was good enough for me. Great job and congrats!!... full review

Great way to introduce new ways of thinking and looking at the world. The timing was so on point in my estimation. Loved how we got to invest and relate with Mike before he delved into the ceremony. Hope to see this one-man show go places. ... full review

This is truly a beautiful show. You walk into it, sit down, and are, quite literally, transported to Peru through Michael Kass' expert and almost magical storytelling. Even though you may think you're sitting in a small 45 seat theater in Hollywood, this show makes you feel as if you are part of that coalescing tribe gathering in an ancient Peruvian temple, awaiting to discover some inner, universal truth. It is definitely a show not to be missed. It's funny, it's touching, it's insightful. Seriously, go see it. And then go see it a second time. Trust me, it's that good. Also, props to the tech crew, because those sound cues are as numerous as they are gorgeous. ... full review

My husband Gavin and I loved your show! I've been using ayahuasca as a sacrament for 13 years now and thoroughly identified with your story. I was moved by your honesty and insight and feel you really did ayahuasca justice--no small feat. Your show has so much heart. I really appreciate your ability to connect with your audience. You did a marvelous job! I loved the humor. Gavin especially appreciated your subtle use of the buckets. Many thanks!... full review

I consider myself somewhat of a theater snob, it takes a lot for me to "love" a show. Let me just say, I LOVED this show. In capitals!! It's the type of show that makes you think about your own life, the choices you make, the patterns you fall into... and how you can change it all. Michael's stage presence is so comfortable, yet he exudes such power at the right moments. It's like having a conversation with the most interesting person you know - even though that person at times is sad or feels consumed by self-loathing or fear - and you still want to hear more. Such an amazing show!!!!... full review

Kass' 'Ceremony' is a gripping, evocative, emotional, and funny journey on the path to personal freedom and liberation by way of the most exotic and usual type of "therapy" one could experience. Kass' writing is so crisp, quick, sharp, and eloquent that you can't help but be hypnotically drawn into his tale. Like all of the best storytellers, Kass paints with elaborate and vivid description, all the while texturing with insightful analysis and commentary. Well worth seeing, not only for the story, but for the insight it can reflect upon the audience.... full review

Ceremony isn't as good as everyone says. It’s better. As a storyteller, Michael Kass is patient and sincere, guiding the audience through his tale with a natural ease while revealing moments of self-deprecating humor and touching vulnerability. Being in the audience for this show was like listening to an incredible story told by a good friend over a couple of beers. Remarkably well-executed and endearing, Ceremony is an experience not to be missed. ... full review

Full disclosure here: I've known Michael Kass for some years, so a gush from me is certainly biased. That said, if I didn't thoroughly enjoy his piece I just wouldn't have written a review. 'Pure' storytelling (just actors on a stage, or folks around a campfire) is probably my favorite form of theatre to see, but it's also the most demanding. Like Chekhov or Shakespeare, if the story is executed with anything less than deft skill the audience will be bored and/or confused, or even actively uncomfortable. But when executed properly, a solo piece (or Chekhov, etc) can open up something in an audience's heart and imagination, and can reaffirm the struggle that so many actors out here face: 'This is why I do it!'. Put more simply, the s... full review

This is edge-of-seat storytelling, captivating from beginning to end. As a writer, Kass has crafted a story that weaves past and present seamlessly - as a performer he dives in with bared teeth, ripping himself open and allowing us to witness a raw, genuine spiritual transformation. The result is very moving indeed. ... full review

One person shows...well...you never know. But Michael Kass wasn't trying to be anyone but himself. He was vulnerable and funny and put everything out there for us to see. What started as something we could all relate to - feeling lost, losing love - became something fascinating and other worldly and incredibly intriguing. But we could still relate. We could still follow Michael on his journey and feel like we were a part of it....and maybe feel like we'd like to take a leap of faith like that, too. I loved it from beginning to end.... full review