The Light Bringer

Wow, just wow!

We expected this to be somewhat serious, but there is so much charming humor and truth. Laila does such a good job of bringing us from her childhood in Saudi Arabia to her young adulthood in Florida. The conflicting pressure between her family, her iman, and US culture is very well presented. Can't wait to see "The Chase" - her sequel.

Hilarious, LIVELY, I gasped and cackled!

I NEED this to get an award. And return to MN for part 2 (which she says is totally possible to make happen!) I couldn’t stop thinking about Brittney Spears, maybe because Laila radiates pop star charisma and absolutely adorable pure/mischievous duality of being a girl-woman in 90s and ‘00s, especially with a strict father! And that’s just one layer of this well laid out journey. Laila’s energy more than invites you in (shout out to the not-so-MN-nice audience members who responded vocally as well) but can more than take the whole room on the ride even when we were rapt listening. Incredible storytelling full of twists and fun and characters galore. We really see and feel this segment of her life through her eyes.

A gorgeous, polished show

This is such a gorgeous fusion of content and delivery. A really wonderfully touching story about the challenges of being a young Arab/Muslim refugee. I hope Lee will be back to the Minnesota Fringe for the sequel.

Great storyteller, great story

Definitely worth seeing.

Storyteller’s Storyteller

Laila Lee is a storyteller’s storyteller. She has absolute command of her craft and the tale she weaves is profoundly moving and studded with humor, wit and beauty. She achieves the ultimate goal of a personal narrative solo show: the universal in the particular. A must see!

Beautiful storytelling

See this show. Laila is a wonderful writer and storyteller, and I found myself both learning about experiences I've never had and affirmed as a woman growing up in a mysogynist, repressive environment. Her story provides the nuance we need more of in the world with a strength that never asks for pity, but simply shares powerfully. And as a person who loves audience participation, I also really love a show that I can also just sit back and listen without needing to give anything or take care of the performer. What a gift.

Collision of Cultures & Collisions of Children

This is a brilliant, heart warming, hysterically funny, and heart wrenching personal story about a young girl immigrating to America from Pakistan with her family. As she grows older, the American Dream is torn apart by family drama, teenage angst, frightening nightmares, and difficult choices. The sound cues were exceptional and light provided nice transitions between scenes. I suspect this show might sell out, so reserve tickets if you want to guarantee a seat to this amazing personal journey. I look forward to a sequel to this story whenever possible!

Thank you - keep sharing & telling

This performance is in my thoughts a lot…as I think of my mother & grandmother trying to break free from the culture of their domineering fathers generations ago, it continues for so many. Thank you for sharing- many need to hear your story of joy, heartbreak, Strength!

Engaging, interesting storytelling

I loved this show! It was so engaging, and the artist's style was so compelling. A great combination of a well-conceived an executed personal history, as well as a glimpse into a culture and family life. If you see this, I guarantee you won't be disappointed. If you missed it, definitely tune in if it is available via the Fringe Hangover.

One more chance to see this show- Take it!!

This spectacular storytelling show was a joy to watch and engaging at every turn. Laila playfully and somberly utilizes the stage and two distinct props (a lantern and a scarf) as well as her own body to fully realize the stories she tells. This isn't a standing by a music stand storytelling show, it is a vibrant movement, spot-on soundtrack, heart-filling show that I urge you not to miss! The only critique I have is that some of the Arabic words were difficult to hear clearly over the music. But that is such a minor detail and one that probably could be overcome by sitting a little closer to the stage. There's only one more chance to see this show, and I hope you take it!

very engaging performer and storyteller

Light brought!

As a middle-aged white guy, the algorithms don't generally provide me valuable or kind narratives of cultures that aren't exactly like mine. Everyone who looks like me should be obligated to see this show. Not because it's going to change our minds about the experience of Muslim immigrants (though it should) but because it's one of the most beautifully-crafted works of art out there to demonstrate the similarities of our human experience. Laila Lee conveys what is ultimately a HUMAN experience, and it's in those cultural similarities that men like me will be convinced of the humanity of others. This is exquisite, tremendous theatre, and I absolutely look forward to the sequel!

Powerful story of immigrant culture clashes

This powerful story told in dramatic fashion is a powerful reminder of the clashes of culture that occur for immigrants to this country every day from many places. I left wanting to know more of her own experience and how some of the situations evolved. I recommend it to anyone who knows immigrants to this country from anywhere (that should be ALL of us!) as a reminder of the stories that are happening in their lives, sometimes behind the scenes to neighbors and friends.

a natural, passionate storyteller

In 30 years of Fringing this is one of the best shows I have seen. It is heartwarming and provocative. Her story flows as it unfolds and feels natural. She’s high energy, while calmly delivering thoughtful insights. Her delivery is delightful and filled with unexpected twists. Her nonverbals clearly enhance the story. She engaged the audience in a repartee style, reminiscent of Robin Williams and his improvisation based on serious musing. She creates curiosity & desire to know more of her culture and patriarchy. Her caring challenges the audience to look backwards into our own immigrant roots. Strongly recommend.

Wonderful Performance

Laila did a great job promoting the show. After seeing her actively handing out flyers in multiple locations, I was persuaded to add it to my fringe schedule. She is an enthusiatic actor and uses the stage well to tell her story. I'm pleased to hear that she is planning a sequel, because the current show left me with many questions. Some, but not all of which she answered during some brief remarks after the show.