Photo featuring cast of “English,” courtesy of the Alley Theatre
“English” is a theatrical play exploring belonging, identity and colonization.
Set in Tehran, Iran in 2008, the show opens up with a scenic design of a classroom, created by Afsaneh Aayani.
The classroom is used to teach students English for the TOEFL Exam, also known as the Test of English as a Foreign Language.
As the students (whose native-language is Farsi) learn English, they learn a skill needed to achieve their goals, but in doing so, they simultaneously grieve their identity.
As a result of this, some have trouble assimilating into a new culture.
The students have to build their support system from the ground up, while practicing independence and responsibility without any guidance.
In the midst of chaos, they come across situations they don’t know how to navigate.
How do you cope when you miss your mother’s signature dish?
How do you describe a word in your native tongue when there isn’t a direct translation in English?
Is there a way to describe a chosen loss to someone who has never felt it before?
The characters struggle with being trapped between both ends of a cultural spectrum, imprisoned by two languages and two societies.
Playwright Sanaz Toossi showcases these two identities sensationally well.
Photo featuring cast of “English,” courtesy of the Alley Theatre
The production shines a light on the Green Movement, an unpredictable political climate in Iran during 2009.
In the 2009 presidential election, votes were tampered with, resulting in both peaceful and violent protests.
Supporters of the Green Movement, including some characters, wore the color green as a way to stand in solidarity.
The classroom provided a peaceful environment for the students during this time, creating a sense of solace.
As it turns out, the very thing they were having a hard time with (learning English), was protecting them in the long run.
Regardless of whether they enjoyed learning English, studying it created paths for each character’s future.
Costume Designer Shahrzad Mazaheri portrayed the female characters in hijabs, abayas and early 2000s style modest western clothing.
Her clothing decision shows that even through the religion and culture of Iranian-style clothing, western fashion influence was present.
“English” was a delightful, comical and quick-witted humorous play.
Stage Manager Kaylee Sarton McCray’s direction of the fluidity of the desks on stage left no scene stagnant.
Lighting Designer Sherrice Mojgani’s touch was steady in the classroom, using contrasting colors on stage to the audience engaged.
University of Houston students would surely enjoy the production.
A satisfying ending to an emotional story, balanced with set-ups for unique humor—the performance was magical.
“English” is running now through Mar. 8 at the Alley Theatre. Tickets are available on Alley Theatre’s website.
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