Mai Khoi - Bad Activist?

I went into Mai Khoi and the Dissidents' show “Bad Activist” only knowing that she had a crazy back story, was a refugee from Vietnam, and that she was very talented (like everyone Joe’s Pub has!). What I didn’t expect to experience was an incredibly educational, cultural, and art explosion! Mai Khoi walks us through her story, and the story of many Vietnamese who criticize their government, through spoken word, music (most that was sung in Vietnamese with translations on a video above her), costume changes, and visuals.

I think many people assume all is well in Vietnam, now that the war is over. Vietnam isn’t high on people’s radar outside a beautiful vacation destination and war that many people from the US protested against years ago. However, diving into Mai Khoi’s life we quickly learn that it is currently a police state where (in the past) one can go to jail for wearing bell bottoms, as they are too American, and more currently speaking out about climate change, let alone saying anything negative about the government.

Mai Khoi’s story starts out like many young girls with a dream of being a singer. Her goal is to make lots of money as a pop star to financially support her family. And she does just that! She becomes known as the Lady Gaga of Vietnam, which apparently isn’t a compliment (however, I would take it as one).

One should note that after experiencing Mai Khoi last night, she is anything but just a pop star. That woman has range! Yes, she can sing love songs and fun fluff, but she can rap and give a pretty impressive death metal growl.

Like many activists, I can relate to Mai Khoi’s frustration, and, I can only assume, the root of her growl. But being an activist in Vietnam is very different from being one here. We may feel unheard and like nothing matters, but the Vietnamese government will arrest you, censor you, and erase you.. if you speak out of line. Through the performance your heart will break as you see a woman who used her fame to try to make a difference for her beloved country only to receive hate, violence, fear, and exile.

This tragic story ends with a woman who loses it all to open a new door in the USA, where she finally feels free. Where she is able to express her fear and frustration to an audience who celebrates her in the open.

There are many times I get frustrated with my country, but at the end of the day it is people like Mai Khoi who make me truly grateful that I live in a place where I can complain about what our government is doing wrong, I can protest, I have options for my vote, and a country that will bring in people like Mai Khoi and keep them safe. Well, as safe as any American.

Anyway, if you get the opportunity to see Mai Khoi and her show “Bad Activist”, you will be blown away by the sheer talent, artistry, and balls on this very impressive woman. My hats off to you, Mai Khoi, if only we can have more bad activists in the world like you!