3 minute read
One-Woman Show Brings Light to Darkness Through Laughter
February 2024
“Who Chiseled That? The Story of a Life Unscripted, Unstoppable and Unexpectedly Funny” is not just a one-woman show; it's a beacon of light that shines humor into the crevices of life's challenges. This show, the brainchild of the talented Merit Kahn, is more than a theatrical piece; it’s a testament to the resilience and humor ingrained in the Jewish community, particularly as reflected in the life of Merit herself.
At the core of this show lies the indelible influence of Merit's grandmother, Eve Kahn. A beacon of Jewish strength, Eve founded a Hadassah chapter in Chicago. Her legacy continues today, with annual luncheons held in her honor and donations made to Hadassah Hospital in Israel. It was at this hospital, beneath a plaque bearing her grandmother's name, that Merit found herself as a patient, having twisted her ankle visiting Masada. This twist of fate serves as a poignant reminder of her grandmother's lasting presence in her life.
Having lost her grandmother to Ovarian Cancer at the tender age of seven, Merit confronted her own vulnerability when she tested positive for the BRCA1 gene mutation, prevalent among Ashkenazi Jewish women. This revelation, while daunting, has been transformed into a source of empowerment and humor in her show. Through sharing her journey of preventive surgeries, Merit not only educates but also connects with her audience on a deeply personal level.
The show transcends the traditional theatrical experience, weaving humor with the stark realities of life. Merit’s skillful comedy brings laughter to even the most somber topics, like her hysterectomy, double mastectomy and divorce. It’s a balancing act between light-heartedness and earnestness, demonstrating the power of comedy to heal and inspire.
The show is a reminder that our past does not define us; rather, it's how we choose to narrate our journey that shapes our future. It's about rewriting one's past to rewire the future.
Merit says, “Laughter isn’t just the best medicine; it’s the secret ingredient to genuine confidence.” To that end, she teamed up with Confidence Coach, Charlsey Childers and created "The Confidence & Comedy Bash,” a one-of-a-kind event at The Mint Museum in Charlotte, NC, on Sunday, February 4, to empower professional women (and a few discerning men) to embrace their worth and find their own funny stories.
“In the professional realm, many women grapple with selfworth. By coupling comedy with confidence coaching, we aim to empower women to laugh at their imperfections and increase self-worth,” says Kahn.
For anyone who values theater, comedy, and personal growth, "The Confidence & Comedy Bash" featuring a performance of "Who Chiseled That? The Story of a Life Unscripted, Unstoppable and Unexpectedly Funny" is an unmissable event, promising not just an afternoon of laughter, but a lifetime of inspiration.
For tickets to The Confidence & Comedy Bash, Sunday, Feb. 4 at The Mint Museum, Charlotte, NC, confidenceandcomedy.com/
