THIS IS NOT AN IMMIGRANT STORY
By Reza Salazar
Written by Reza Salazar
Directed by Kate Whoriskey
Starring Reza Salazar
When Reza Salazar was just four, his young mother painted a circle on his nose, then her own. In a moment of desperate creativity, they reinvented themselves as clowns, turning survival into performance.
This Is Not An Immigrant Story is a solo theatrical piece tracing a son’s journey to understand and love his mother, shaped by their nomadic early years as clowns traveling throughout South America. In this coming-of-age story, Reza explores trauma, resilience, and love through humor, compassion, and arresting physicality.
Developed with support from The Ground Floor at Berkeley Repertory Theatre, Berkely, CA
September 8, 7PM Opening Reception
September 11, 4PM
Reza Salazar is an actor and writer, who began his career as a child in South America, working with his mother as clowns. He originated the role of Rafael in the Tony-nominated play Clyde’s by two-time Pulitzer Prize winner Lynn Nottage, and also appeared on Broadway in Sweat (Studio 54). Regionally, he has performed at major theaters across the country including The Old Globe, Mark Taper Forum, Goodman, Guthrie, Arena Stage, and Folger Theater. Reza’s one person show, This Is Not An Immigrant Story, developed at the Public Theater in collaboration with Mad Gene Media was selected for the 2025 Ground Floor at Berkeley Rep., and Powers New Voices 2026 at the Old Globe.
