An actor and poet navigates the systemic obstacles and personal trials of growing up in America, discovering salvation, resilience, and identity through the unlikely lifeline of William Shakespeare’s verse and hip-hop.

I like Jacob in everything I see him in; I think he’s a really gifted performer. His delivery shines here, too, whenever he’s in rhythm or rhyme - the bard’s or his own. I wish I were more enamored with his writing in this vulnerable autobiographical solo show. He’s so eager to connect his story with cultural touchpoints and audience call-and-response that it begins to feel like a trope. He’s too proactive about addressing intersectionalist academics - sure, Shakespeare could have been a queer collective, and maybe there’s a way to spin this as a white savior narrative - but it was the language that Jacob connected with, not its disembodied poet. All told, How Shakespeare Saved My Life leaves a timid impression - a strange way to land a story with so much emotional heft. A couple of the characters, especially a trans sex worker, feel like disrespectful caricatures.