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Dr. Micah E. Johnson is a tenured professor in the Department of Family Medicine at UCLA focused on youth mental health, addiction and violence. He is also an award-winning performer and writer who translates scientific research into culturally-rich, performance-based interventions. Dr. Johnson has authored 30 scientific articles and multiple books, and was awarded over $5 million in research awards from the National Institutes of Health. His work has been cited by the New York Times, ESPN, Senator Bernie Sanders, Charlamagne Tha God, and others. He is the recipient of the 2023 Outstanding Research Achievement Award at the University of South Florida and the 2023 Community Peacebuilder of the Year Award from the River Phoenix Center for Peacebuilding. Dr. Johnson’s research and advocacy have helped reduce decades of prison sentences and overturn death penalties for individuals with behavioral health needs in over 100 capital and felony cases throughout the country. Fill form below to book Dr. J.
On Sight is a live comedy special and film that follows a single storyteller, professor and death-row activist, Dr. J, as he recounts a life-changing meeting with twelve incarcerated youth inside a juvenile detention facility. He retells the conversation they shared about trauma, violence, loyalty, and the conditions that shaped their lives. Dr. J reenacts the youth’s humor, pain, questions, and breakthroughs as they learn to calm themselves, avoid retaliation, and choose peace. Based on true events, the show blends stand-up comedy, Hip Hop, street culture, and evidence-based mental health practices. The audience gains knowledge and empathy as they witness traumatized youth grapple with mental health for the first time, in a desperate attempt to save their own lives.
Our vision is to host 50 special live On Sight performances in select communities across the country between April and June 2026, using comedy, culture, and storytelling to spread peace, healing, and practical wellness tools. Each performance is a powerful blend of truth and transformation—created to spark dialogue, inspire resilience, and build connection. Fill out the form below, and our administrative team will contact you soon to discuss bringing this incredible program to your city.
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On Sight
What is On Sight
On Sight is a live solo performance and behavioral health intervention created and performed by Dr. Micah E. Johnson. It blends storytelling, comedy, dramatic acting, and culturally grounded dialogue to teach emotional regulation, stress management, and conflict resolution.
How does On Sight improve mental health?
On Sight is not only a live comedy show and film. It is also an intervention to improve mental health and reduce violence. It is immersive. The audience learns in real time, reflects on personal experiences, and practices emotional and conflict management skills during the performance.
Who is created On Sight?
On Sight is executive-produced by DC Young Fly of MTV’s Wild ’N Out and Dr. Micah E. Johnson, a UCLA professor and activist. The University of Florida News and Tallahassee Democrat published articles explaining how Dr. Micah Johnson’s background helped inspire the creation of On Sight.
Who is the primary audience?
Youth and young adults, roughly ages 15 to 30, and parents, guardians, families, and communities. The show is also ideal for parents, educators, counselors, social workers, violence interruption teams, mentors, re-entry programs, faith-based organizations, and workplace wellness initiatives.
What mental health skills and tools are discussed in the show?
On Sight’s mental health tools are designed as simple, memorable steps that anyone can use in the heat of conflict. Clock It, Drop It, Swap It (CDS) means notice a toxic thought (clock it), release it (drop it), and replace it with something positive (swap it). GoodChi Goggles (pronounced “Gucci”) train the eye to see the good—safety, love, and possibility—even in hostile environments. Deep Breaths calm the body and reset the nervous system when emotions spike. Five Cents uses the five senses to ground yourself in the present moment, and Wind, Water, Walk, & Rest reminds us that breathing, hydration, movement, and sleep are the body’s best medicine. Alongside these, youth learn a de-escalation chant: “Humanize the human and the crime. I do stuff like that all the time. Say my bad three times. Tell yourself you’re proud of yourself.” Each line is rooted in peace-building science— recognizing shared humanity reduces anger, normalizing mistakes eases shame, and repeated apology lowers tension. The closing line re-frames peace as pride: it allows young people to choose a nonviolent response without feeling disrespected, diminished, or weak. Another tool, Slide, plays on the street term that means to retaliate, while reclaiming its second meaning: to let it go, to walk away. In this double-edged choice lies the heart of the battle—whether to repeat the cycle or to survive and transform. There are several other strategies offered to develop protective and promotive factors, such as role playing, referred to as “Drill” to repurpose the term, as well as circle dialogue, self-pledge, exposure therapy, and other therapeutic tools.
What story does the performance explore?
Dr. Johnson recounts a conversation with twelve detained youth navigating trauma, identity, pride, and survival.
How long is the performance
Approximately 80 to 90 minutes.
How much audience participation is involved
Participation is central and includes call-and-response and guided reflection.
What venues work best
We can accommodate any indoor venue, including universities, high schools, detention facilities, churches, community arts centers, and private venues. This show may not be appropriate for outdoor venues, but let’s discuss.
What audience size works
Groups of 50 to 3,000+.
What technical setup is required
We require a performance area, one microphone, a PA or speaker system, and an audio technician (for sound design).
What is the typical fee range?
$5,000 to $50,000, depending on scale, location, and add-ons. Hosts typically provide round-trip flight and hotel as a courtesy.
What is the purpose of the workshop?
The workshop prepared folks to use the film and resources to lead discussions and interventions in their groups, communities, and organizations. The workshop trains parents, students/peer-mentors, educators, counselors, social workers, violence interruption teams, mentors, re-entry programs, faith-based organizations, and members of workplace wellness initiatives.
Can the program be customized?
Yes. Tone, pacing, and examples can be adapted to audience needs.
How do we schedule a performance?
Submit a booking inquiry with your organization name, location, audience size, preferred dates, and budget.
How do I book Dr. Johnson?
Complete the form above and click “Submit.”
What is the best email for questions?
contact@DoctorMicahJohnson.com or ThisIsOnSight@gmail.com
How to follow Dr. Johnson for updates?
Instagram @DoctorMicahJohnson