Emil Amok Guillermo has a lot to say, but it’s what is left unsaid that makes his solo show so interesting. Emil Amok—Lost NPR Host Found Under St. Marks, And other stories runs just under an hour and exposes America’s ugly colonization of the Philippines, along with other comical and often profound observations.
Guillermo may not be a famous name (a problem unto itself for Asian-American personalities), but his tales are worth hearing—and repeating. The San Francisco born Ivy League graduate was fortunate enough to earn a spot on National Public Radio’s All Things Considered. He was the first Asian-American male to host a national news program. It only lasted two years, however, and while Guillermo doesn’t say it, one senses that the stint was not met with a mutual parting. One can also determine that the left leaning broadcasting corporation is not always as progressive as its loyal listeners are led to believe.
Yet Guillermo has soldiered on, writing and working for The Asian American Legal Defense and Education Fund, a contribution that he considers his most important work.
Guillermo wisely avoids playing the “victim card” in relationship to cultural discrimination and offers insights into other groups that have been marginalized in society. In doing so, he makes the point that discrimination for one is discrimination for all.
One wishes that his show would last a bit longer and delve more into history than it does. Perhaps he will save that for the sequel, For now, the piece, running through March 4th as part of the FRIGID Fringe Festival, is a must see for anyone who cares about human rights and social justice.
For tickets and information, click here.