“How Shakespeare Saved My Life” Turns Trauma into Urban Poetry—at Berkeley Rep
Jacob Ming-Trent. Photos: Kevin Berne
Jacob Ming-Trent, Shape-Shifting Messenger, Saves Himself & US
by Jenyth Jo
In his fabulous one-man show, Jacob Ming-Trent transforms himself into an urban storyteller, like Shakespeare before him. Confronting the cruelties of racism and authority, he channels Isabella’s words from Measure for Measure, asking: “To whom should I complain?”
In Ming-Trent’s autobiographical journey of survival and transformation, he too confronts ruthless power. Ming-Trent summons homegrown heroes whose “complaints” ring true—Tupac, Biggie, Basquiat, MLK, and Malcolm X. Jacob mutates from “fat boy” to Shakespearean actor to tell his story in style.
An imposing and acclaimed TV and film actor, Jacob enlists us as his “congregation” in deep, musical tones. When his mom tosses him into the mean New York streets, he uses The Bard to outface dangers. And we chant “Play On!” for him when revelation looms.
His isolation and loneliness as a youth on the streets resonate with suffering. But we cheer when he succeeds.
Jacob Ming-Trent
In a sunny yellow suit, framed in tightly focused lighting, surprising sliding walls, and a single church pew, the actor draws us in. Inspired director Tony Taccone conjures lighting, projections, and hip-hop to propel the action. As we travel through his lonely childhood, homeless teenage years, and spotty education, he asks us: “How far will you go for love?”
To a teacher who doesn’t understand what it’s like to be hungry, the homeless 16-year-old declares: “Physics is a luxury.”
He exposes an ignorant English teacher who claims that Shakespeare does not belong in her class. When she threatens him with detention, he brilliantly uses Portia’s “quality of mercy” speech from Merchant of Venice to win her over.
He turns the gang in the park into modern Shakespeare heroes, showcasing his vast talent for mimicry. Ming-Trent raps all three, keeping each distinct and clear—a street symphony.
Jacob Ming-Trent
Ming-Trent’s vulnerability—and his life-long ambition to become a Shakespearean actor—touch our hearts. Yes, he’s won awards on stage and screen, but this show reveals the obstacles. The dangers of street life, a drug addicted father, and a mother who tells him he’s “nothing special” depict a dangerous path. His idols—Tupac, Biggie Smalls, and Basquiat—all died in their 20s, victims of hate and drugs. But Jacob has a goal.
When he buys a gun, he asks, “Where do you find unconditional love?” The gun rap forces us to confront the violence that young Black men face. He survives a drive-by shooting, but his riveting confrontation with police makes us fear he’ll choose “suicide by cop.”
We love the savvy therapist who reminds Ming-Trent that James Baldwin asserted that he has “the right to be here,” words that liberate him.
Lots of people helped save his life. He shows us how to step up and demand freedom for all. His story inspires the bravery and hope we need to fight despair. Ming-Trent eagerly climbs to “the brightest heaven of invention.”
In an America that is denying rights and safety to its own people, Ming-Trent champions joy and love. His message rings true.
“How Shakespeare Saved My Life” written & performed by Jacob Ming-Trent, directed by Tony Taccone, scenic design by Takeshi Kata, costumes by Danielle Preston, lighting by Alan C. Edward, sound design & music by Jake Rodriguez, projections by Alexander V. Nichols, choreography by Tiffany Rachelle Stewart, at Berkeley Repertory Theatre, Berkeley, California.
Info: berkeleyrep.org - to March 1, 2026.
Cast: Jacob Ming-Trent (in many roles)
