I cannot believe Open Lab: Identity and Belonging is over!
I want to give a shout-out and huge thanks to Juan Manuel Mendoza, our director, for giving me the opportunity to be part of such a incredible show. The whole experience was overwhelmingly empowering, healing, and beautiful.
(I blogged about this show during the early stages of rehearsal: click here to read more)
This was my first show at Cal and I have a feeling that nothing will compare to the experience I had working on it. I know that the relationships formed will last. This is due to the way Juan set up our rehearsals every night. We would sit in a circle and share intimate and personal stories with one another. It was a safe space for all of us.
We were extremely vulnerable – both during rehearsals and on the stage.
One of the most important lessons that I learned from this show is that vulnerability is valuable. And beautiful. And important. Vulnerability is vital for personal growth and in relationships. In order to love and to allow others to love us for who we truly are, we must have the courage to speak and share our stories and fears and be vulnerable.
Vulnerability is not amot (amot means shameful in Armenian).
Our stories are valid and important and should not be overlooked. If you think you have a personal issue, don’t over look it. Seek help.
And the next time someone decides to open up to you, respect them and listen. You might be the only person he/she is opening up to. You might be able to help them. You might learn that you are not alone.
Some more photos from the show:
with my cast mates, Nicole and Guillermo
Some of the many talented faces of Open Lab: Identity and Belonging! Love you all!
With my cast mate, Ely
With my cast mates Genesis and Eva
With my cast mate, Eva
One of my outfits for the show.
dress – a boutique in Berkeley, belt – Target, floral crown – Wear Nature (by yours truly)
My parents drove all the way to Berkeley from Los Angeles just to see my show