New one-man act playfully reflects on body image, psychology

Mon, Jan 4, 2016

Vancouver, B.C. – One has never met a mirror he didn’t like, while the other can’t stand to see himself.

A fictionalized account of his own experiences, an emerging psychologist-turned-playwright will ask audiences to take a critical look at themselves in his breakout performance, The Mirror Test.

“The play is about the lengths we often go to cover up who we really are,” said Kevin Kokoska, who pursued a master’s of education in counselling psychology after graduating with a degree in psychology from Kwantlen Polytechnic University (KPU).

“There is lots of role-playing involved in learning to be a therapist. While I’ve always had a love of writing and storytelling, it was my graduate studies in counselling that sparked my interest in performance.”

The “unexpected thrill” of role-playing fictional clients in class inspired Kokoska to reflect on his own knowledge and experiences – which include a practicum at an American weight-loss camp – to create something that inspires others to do the same and look inward.

In the play, running January 14-16 at The Cultch, Kokoska will take guests through an awkward, affective and humorous journey of two very different-looking men attempting to understand the familiar-looking face in front of them.

Playing a fit Canadian counsellor-in-training who attempt to form a relationship with a young American suffering from a binge-eating disorder, Kokoska hopes his one-man act will leave audiences better able to catch glimpses of themselves in others.

With plans to continue acting, Kokoska hopes to build a private counselling practice that’s geared towards artists. For tickets to his debut performance, visit tickets.thecultch.com

Kwantlen Polytechnic University has served the Metro Vancouver region since 1981, and has opened doors to success for more than 200,000 learners. Four campuses—Richmond, Surrey, Cloverdale and Langley—offer a comprehensive range of sought-after programs in business, liberal arts, design, health, science and horticulture, trades and technology, and academic and career advancement. Over 19,000 students annually have a choice from over 120 programs, including bachelor’s degrees, associate degrees, diplomas, certificates, citations and apprenticeships. Learn more at kpu.ca.    

Headshot of Kevin Kokoska available on Flickr.

Media contact:
Hayley Woodin
Media Specialist
t: 604.599.2883
c: 604.364.1288
hayley.woodin@kpu.ca

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