A surprise hit of the 2009 MN Fringe! Seeking escape from his traumatic home life, a boy finds comfort in a "Mystery Girl." But her life begins to parallel his own, leading to a dramatic turn of events.
Mahmoud Hakima is a great storyteller, improv performer, and incredible community member. This show is so intensely personal, but so generous and aware that the specifics of suffering may be personal, but that suffering is universal. The topics in this show are some of the hardest things that ever happen to humans. Also, many of them are also devastatingly common.
A theater scene that supports performers doing work this brave and hopeful is definitely something that keeps me as an artist in Minneapolis.
You've got to see this show.
The performer had a quiet but charming and commanding presence. He spoke to and connected with the audience as if we were actual people in the room with him and not just an abstract wall in front of him, but not in a hokey way, if that makes any sense.
If you see Mahmoud Hakima's name in the credits, you know it's going to be a good show, and this one certainly doesn't disappoint. The story itself kept me on the edge of my seat, and I felt that Mahmoud's creative use of the space and the chairs onstage really added to the storytelling.
We typically don't put much improv on our schedule, so we haven't seen much of Mahmoud Hakima over the years. But the dramatic aspect of his preview caught my attention and the whole show was a great end to our first day of Fringe. It had been a hectic day, so I was a bit worried about staying awake, but both the dark plot and humorous interludes kept me totally focused. And, I agree with the previous reviewer, the Mario part was incredible!
Mahmoud Hakima is a true artist at pacing, emotion, and physical presence onstage. He captivated the entire audience with his reflective and heartbreaking but ultimately triumphant story - perhaps bring tissues because you will not leave the theatre without being deeply affected. Expertly done storytelling!
A Profound and Intimate Journey: "Two Bowls of Cereal and Some Bacon"
"Two Bowls of Cereal and Some Bacon" is not just a performance; it’s an emotional journey that resonates deeply with every member of the audience. From the moment the lights dimmed, it was clear that we were about to witness something truly special, something that would linger in our hearts long after the final curtain call.
The performer’s ability to weave together personal stories with universal themes of love, loss, and the simple beauty of everyday moments was nothing short of extraordinary. There’s a vulnerability in his delivery that draws you in, making you feel as though you’re sitting across the table from an old friend, sharing breakfast and memories.
What struck me most was the authenticity and honesty that permeated every word, every gesture. This wasn’t just a script; it was a piece of the performer’s soul laid bare for all to see. The subtle humor interspersed with poignant reflections created a delicate balance, allowing the audience to laugh, reflect, and perhaps even shed a tear.
The pacing of the show was impeccable, allowing the audience time to absorb the depth of each moment without ever feeling rushed. Each segment of the performance felt like a carefully chosen chapter in a story that is both deeply personal and universally relatable.
The performer’s presence on stage was captivating. He has a remarkable gift for connecting with his audience, not just through his words but through the unspoken emotions that fill the space between the lines. It’s rare to find a performance that feels so genuine, so raw, and so powerfully moving.
"Two Bowls of Cereal and Some Bacon" is a testament to the power of storytelling and the profound impact that a single performer can have on an audience. This is a show that touches the heart and stays with you long after you’ve left the theater. It reminds us all of the beauty in the ordinary and the importance of cherishing the small moments that make up our lives.
In a festival filled with vibrant and diverse performances, this show stands out as a deeply personal and moving experience. It’s a reminder of the power of theater to connect us to our own humanity and to each other.
I already knew Mahmoud was a talented actor, but his ability to take us on this emotional journey was even more than I imagined. The way he's able to convey the enthusiasm and imagination of childhood and the horrors of domestic abuse, the way he switches between characters to create full scenes all by himself, and the way he uses props and lighting to evoke a full range of emotions is truly impressive. This piece had me laughing, gripping my seat, and on the edge of tears, so be sure to catch this show while it lasts and prepare yourself for a moving and satisfying emotional journey.
This tale is gut-wrenching, to be sure, but never maudlin. The time flew as this incredible journey unfolded. I saw this back in 2009 and was so happy to be able to experience it again.
A story of trauma told from the eyes of a kid. This story is so important because releasing stories like these take away the shame from the kids. Because it's never the kid's fault. Beautifully written and performed. An original music piece too! Poignant and one to remember.
A series of vignettes interspersed with a killer soundtrack (release the mixtape on Spotify, the people demand it!), this show was unexpectedly emotional and touching from someone whose comedic chops I've enjoyed for years and years. There is so much physicality to the performance that you almost forget that it's a solo show, even with austere set and restrained use of tech. It's a really beautiful and revealing show that left the audience beaming with pride at how much The Boy had overcome to get to where he is today and with a simple message that you never truly know anyone's story until they share it with you. Highly recommend!
I am typically a bit bored during one person shows but Mahmoud grabbed my attention from start to finish. The way he utilized props and the stage to tell his story along with raw, real emotions I couldn’t look away and have been thinking about it since.
Mahmoud is a yearly Fringe staple who is professional and really gets the expressions down right. A few witty sayings that made me laugh in a low key way. He really bounced around the stage and on one occasion, a bit beyond. I do have to give out another shout for the Mario Dance. But as far as the ending though... well I'd better not spoil it.
Mahmoud does so much with so little - just four chairs, a piece of paper and a marker. He's a true master storyteller carrying us through painful memories, and helping us see them through the eyes of children. He cares deeply for his audience. From the very top, he connects with humor and understanding and compassion, guiding us through the story. This is an excellent show, and worth prioritizing on your fringe schedule.
I am thankful that Mahmoud has remounted his play from 2009. I missed the show back then, and this was the perfect ending to my first day of Fringe. Mahmoud deftly uses the space and blends childhood memories in touching, humorous, and often heartbreaking ways. The fantastic soundtrack helped segue from one moment to the next, and Mahmoud's performance is so sincere. The whole crowd was happy that they powered through to make a 10 pm show. Try to catch his moving performance at Theatre in the Round!
This is what a quality one person Fringe Show should look like. Skillfully written, fast paced, cohesive, emotionally moving and well acted. I was moved by the range of emotions displayed by this performer and in turn felt a strong range of emotions.
This should be on your short list of must sees.
As a Fringe artist, I don't write reviews but I'm making an exception for this show. Mahmoud tells the story of the horrible domestic violence he and his family suffered through the eyes of his younger self. It's a tense, heartbreaking story but glimmers of hope and innocence manage to poke their heads up. You should see this show. Not only is it a raw story of trauma and escape, it's damn fine theatre.
I call Mahmoud Hakima “Mr. Fringe” because I’ve seen him perform many times at this festival over the years but this deeply personal solo show is my favorite. He is completely convincing as his childhood self—both in the whimsical playdates with the central “Mystery Girl” and the harrowing moments at home. This is a very insightful show on the highs and lows of being a kid—the things you can’t control and the things you can (such aa imagination and the movement of Mario).
I missed this last time Mahmoud performed it at the Fringe and I was determined to catch it this time. We even moved it up in the schedule to ensure we caught it. I am SO GLAD that I caught it this time. It's beautiful, moving, and devastating. We put children through so much in this world and his quiet, thoughtful plea for society to do better is a message for all to hear and internalize.
Mahmoud brings us along through some of the most vulnerable moments of his life with openness and humor. He somehow manages to make us see his experiences through the eyes of a child, holding our attention with his energetic performance and deft storytelling. A must see.
I have met and known Mahmoud as an incredibly kind person and entertaining performer, who I have had the pleasure of watching and improvising with. He is a smart player. He is witty, supportive, grounded, and uniquely funny. All of this came through in his performance, with incredible physical moments, endearing storytelling, and humor. However, there is so much more that was revealed and expressed.
Mahmoud's story is deep, real, heartbreaking, and powerful. I left the show speechless, as I tend to be an empathetic and affected viewer. After processing, I have continued to think of his story and cry. But when I also reflect on this amazing artist and performer, I smile. His story is a reminder to us all: You never know what someone has been through, and what shapes their life story and experience. The strength to share is commendable, and I felt honored to be in the audience and invited into Mahmoud's story.
All children deserve love. They deserve to grow up safe and loved. There is a child inside us all, and we must treat each other with compassion. Thank you for sharing your story, Mahmoud.
Nicole is a Twin Cities-based actor, director, and producer. She is thrilled to be a part of the Fringe Festival again. She has previously worked with MN Fringe as a staff member and as an actor. Nicole loves storytelling in any form - from her voice over work to directing, from performing in a musical to producing festivals. Directing credits include: Jurassic Quest, Dinosaur Time Trek, Paw Patrol Live International, and Lakeshore Players’ 10-Minute Play Festival. Nicole is honored to work on this piece and help tell the story.
Mahmoud Hakima
Actor/Writer
Mahmoud is thrilled to be back in the Fringe! This would mark his . . . 20th Fringe show??? Other Fringe credits include Hamluke, Eight Expectations, Behemoth, Works in Progress, Can Michael Come Out and Play (his other one-man show), and directing the musical Happy Endings Church. Outside of Fringe, he has dabbled in acting, writing, directing, puppetry, and improv comedy for the past 20 years. He regularly performs with the improv troupes The Love Squad, Sympathetic Magic, and Blackout Improv. (Speaking of Blackout Improv, Mahmoud is also performing in Blackout Improv Does Something!!! over at Huge Theater.) He is also a member of Jesters Improv Comedy and the murder mystery show The Dinner Detective, where he met Nicole! He would like to thank Nicole for her creative guidance and brilliant wisdom, and he is dedicating this show to all the children whose stories are yet to be heard.
1-800-CHILDREN
Mahmoud recommends you check out these other solo (or near-solo) shows:
****Additional content warnings: This performance includes a reference to incest and two scenes involving police.
Based on a true story, "Two Bowls of Cereal and Some Bacon" opened the 2009 Fringe to an audience of 9. It ended its run with a near-sold-out house. While some revisions have been made to the script, the themes and topics referenced are just as relevant now as they were 15 years ago. The writer invites audiences to witness this emotional journey with an open heart. It is a story told not to inspire sympathy, but to inspire change.
Here are some audience reviews from the 2009 performance:
"One of the most intense, heartfelt pieces of theater I have ever seen."
"Wow!"
"I am still shaking as I'm writing this review."
"Mahmoud Hakima is a master storyteller."
SYNOPSIS OF SCENES
1. A Moment to Cherish
2. The Mystery Girl
3. The Lesson
4. The Adoption
5. Childhood Dreams
6. Done and Dun
7. The Hot October Night in the Small Suburban Town
8. Two Bowls of Cereal and Some Bacon
9. The Man in the Hallway
10. A New Beginning
11. We Weren't So Different
12. Earned in Bruises
IF YOU OR SOMEONE YOU KNOW IS EXPERIENCING DOMESTIC VIOLENCE,
PLEASE CALL 1-800-799-7233
minnesotafringe.org
https://minnesotafringe.org
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