one woman show
Written and Performed by Erin Elizabeth Burns
Why I am the Way I am: 7 Stories of people you probably already hate, is an exploration into the humanity of society’s most vilified people in an attempt to lean away from judgment and into compassion. We get to know them on a deeper level and find out once and for all, why they are the way they are; what helped form their belief systems and points of view.
This one woman show is a riveting piece of art that delves into the complexities and eccentrics of the human psyche currently framed by the societal ideals and division plaguing our world, as we discuss avenues of hope like Neuroplasticity (the brain's ability to change a belief system) and shifting hatred into compassion.
Each audience member is given the chance to ask the burning questions they would want to ask these extremists, if given the opportunity; opening doors into courageous conversation… where change can begin.
White Supremacists were responsible for 81% of domestic terrorist killings in 2019
Anti-Defamation League
our mission
Why I Am the Way I Am's Mpact production's goal is to make a positive impact on community by providing audiences a safe space to uncover the humanity in society's most vilified people, attempting to lean our culture away from judgement and hate into tolerance and compassion.
our charitable partner
A portion of all ticket sales goes to Life After Hate, a non-profit organization founded in 2011 with the mission of helping people leave the violent far-right to connect with humanity and lead compassionate lives.
We are honored to support and be aligned with this organization whose programs interrupt violence committed in the name of ideological or religious beliefs by providing education, interventions, academic research, and outreach to those transitioning back into a non-violent society.
Currently there are over 700 hate groups in the U.S.
Southern Poverty Law Center
