My one-woman show, Why Would I Mispronounce My Own Name? will have a 7-week run at The San Francisco Marsh Theatre, the Bay Area’s premier showcase for solo performances. Two shows per week: Thursday 8 pm and Saturday 5 pm from October 25 to December 8. I am so excited, and am already giving lots of thought to the guests I want to invite for post-show talkbacks on a variety of social justice issues, so topical in these challenging times.
Many of you may have seen the obnoxious tirade directed at customers and staff that were speaking Spanish in a NYC restaurant. The complainant, caught on video, threatens to call ICE (Immigration and Customs Enforcement) on these folks.
It went viral, and twitter users identified the racist culprit as NYC lawyer Aaron Schlossberg. Hundreds of folks, offended by his tirade, showed up for a festive street party featuring Mariachis and tacos in front of Schlossberg’s home. It was heartwarming to watch the outpouring of support. And I love Mariachis. https://tinyurl.com/ychkjtyy
Schlossberg's law firm website notes that they can serve clients in several languages, including Spanish, French, Mandarin Chinese, Hebrew, and of course English. The racist barrister, who has now issued a lame apology (hell no, we don't believe you) may find himself subjected to disciplinary action from the New York State Bar. Here's hoping. https://tinyurl.com/ycxrrmfs
All this reminds me of growing up in segregated South Texas, where it was not unusual to hear white kids telling us “this is America, speak English,” or “if you can’t speak English go back to Mexico.” Well duhhh . . . we spoke perfectly good English and our families had been in S. Texas for generations, since before Davey Crockett ever laid eyes on the Alamo. This is ground that I cover in my one-woman show.
Seen my play already? First, thank you, and second, please come again. Why Would I Mispronounce My Own Name? is always evolving, and has already undergone big changes from last year's performances. I am certain that new material will find it's way to my play between now and opening night.
If you live outside the Bay Area, how about making that visit to San Francisco you’ve been thinking about? The temperatures in late October through early December are quite nice and range from the low 50s to mid-60s. There’s so much to see and do: San Francisco, Berkeley, Marin, the Wine Country -- all beautiful this time of year.
Look forward to seeing you at The San Francisco Marsh Theatre sometime between October 25 and December 8, 2018. Tickets not yet on sale, and you'll be the first to know when sales go live.
I have been enormously gratified by the sold out houses and the warm reception my play has gotten. Muchismas gracias.