The Book of My Shames

The Book of My Shames is an original solo theatre show with music, co-created by Isaiah Bell and director Sean Guist, with original words and music by Isaiah.

This unique experience is “thoughtful, raw, and honest,” with achingly funny turns. It is powered by the glowing vocals of Canadian opera star Isaiah Bell, following him through the challenges of growing up in a restrictive fundamentalist commune, making bad choices in men, and pursuing a life on the stage. Combining rapid-fire monologues and personal stories with an unorthodox array of music old and new, this “comic, wrenching, and personal tour-de-force” reminds us that desire, rejection, and acceptance are themes common to us all… Isaiah just does it with a bit of glitz, some operatic pathos, and a campy wink.

The Book of My Shames is now in rehearsal for its 2021 Canadian tour, in a newly redeveloped version, arranged for chamber ensemble, and featuring brand new music composed for the show. See the Schedule page for more information.

 

Additionally, further presentations and festival appearances are in the works. Contact thebookofmyshames@gmail.com to talk about booking the show.

 

Reviews of The Book of My Shames’ initial performances have described an experience that is “impossibly beautiful”, a “comic, wrenchingly personal tour-de-force”, “poignant, thoughtful, raw and honest”, “touching, very funny, disturbing and sometimes quite revolting,” and a “fascinating creation”. The Toronto Star says,

Bell’s tale is one of small answers that speak bravely of truths that are bigger than all of us… in spoken words and in song, he made the most common themes of acceptance, desire, rejection and love in his own life echo in our own recollections. ( Entire review )

Classical music critic Leslie Barcza writes:

The flexibility on display, the ease with which Bell could connect, have us laughing our heads off? Very impressive. Bell’s presentation was so authentic.. telling us horror stories and silly stories, and laying himself bare… Whatever show he might bring to town, I’ll be sure to go see it. ( Entire review )