Black When I Was A Boy

Black When I Was A Boy was hands down one of the best performances that I have ever seen. I had never seen a one-man show before, so I had no clue what to expect. I wondered if it would get a little boring watching only one person on stage for the entirety of the performance. However, what I soon realized was that Cooper Bates could somehow turn himself into different characters within seconds. He used no props to change his appearance, however his voices, movements and acting completely transformed him into the people from his childhood. Black When I Was A Boy was a rollercoaster of emotions. Cooper Bates's integration of hilarious moments and devastating stories left me crying and laughing at the same time. There were so many powerful mo... full review

This show is well produced, well written, well acted and profoundly poignant. The pacing of the storytelling combined with the dramatizations of the events touched me. I felt like I was there with the character and I was deeply moved. Bravo and thank you for sharing your unique perspective. Your message reveals the pain of racism while giving us the message that there is hope and the potential for goodness, love and connection in all of us. Thank you! I recommend this show for every adult human. It is a heart, mind, eye opener! It is also funny and very entertaining as well! You'll have great time, I promise!... full review

Cooper Bates embodies young and old, black and white, male and female. These skillful acting transitions are in service of his story about growing up in a predominantly white community and navigating shame and isolation into a place of connection and self-pride. Besides the skillful acting and engaging storytelling, the thing that stays with me is his realization that by being oneself, real changes can be made with those around you. Especially because in the current reactionary American climate I tend to get fed up quickly with people who are "conservatives". Perhaps a less quick trigger and communication effects greater change than rage over prejudice and strong difference.... full review

Plenty of stories to share with those of us that haven't grown up as a young black boy in a white world...so touching and yet hilarious...Cooper has shared his experiences in such a heartfelt way that you can't help but want to see it again and have as many friends as possible see it!!! ... full review

Cooper Bates is amazing. I mean: mind blown and still taking it all in. ... full review