Avaaz
In Farsi, "Avaaz" translates to "voice" or "song," embodying the spirit of expression as it is sung. Playwright Michael Shayan delivers a powerful performance that gives a voice to his mother, himself, and those embracing an alternative lifestyle, celebrating the richness of diverse narratives. Avaaz is one of the best one-person performances you will ever see. Emmy Award nominee Michael Shayan's masterful and engaging solo theatrical play features Shayan embodying the character of his mother, Roya. In this heartfelt presentation, Roya invites the audience into her warm and vibrant home to celebrate the rich traditions of the Persian New Year, Nowruz. He mentioned that the Iranian calendar can be a couple of years behind. Shayan narrates her touching personal journey from the turbulent streets of Tehran to the diverse Iranian-American community known as "Tehrangeles," California (A combination of Tehran, the capital of Iran, and Los Angeles), a place once known as Westwood. Shayan begins his captivating 90-minute one-person performance skillfully weaving through the audience. He engages each person individually with humor and grace while establishing a genuine connection, drawing you closer into his world. His warm demeanor and quick wit create an atmosphere of laughter, making each interaction feel personal, joyous, and memorable. His captivating performance stemmed from a series of heartfelt interviews he conducted with his mother regarding her life. She never discussed her life in Iran with him; however, during these intimate conversations, a transformation occurred.
She began to unveil the rich tapestry of her childhood and adult experiences, recounting the moments of joy and the emotional and mental anguish and pains that marked her early years. Her enthralling stories painted a vivid picture of life in Iran, helping him discover his roots and gain profound insights into the resilience and strength that shaped her journey. Shayan masterfully channels his mother, creating a stunning connection that resonates deeply with the audience. His chemistry on stage is nothing short of captivating, making every moment feel electrifying and unforgettable. Weaving together themes of cultural identity and the immigrant experience, Shayan creates an engaging and endearing theatrical experience—with parts that are witty, traumatic, and triumphant while engagingly charming to the soul. I loved the story he shared about the Iran invitation to dinner, his mother's thoughts about him wanting to be a writer, which in Farsi, is considered unemployed, and his remarkable ability to break away from the script, connect with the audience, and smoothly transition back into his character's lines was awe-inspiring. The play addresses his plight as a gay man living in a Los Angeles community with roots in Tehran, with prevailing views that were negative regarding his lifestyle.
Additionally, he discusses the harsh realities people face in his home country, where being gay is criminalized and can result in severe penalties, including death. He ends his performance by shouting out the words "Woman, Life, Freedom," "Zan, Zendegī, Āzādī" in Persian (Farsi). Avaaz has been a way for Shayan to connect with his Iranian heritage and use his creative writing skills to express his love for his culture through plays, allowing him to reclaim his identity on his own terms.
"آفرین" (Āfarin) Shayan, "آفرین" (Āfarin).
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Chicago Shakespeare Theater
AVAAZ
Written and Performed by Michael Shayan
Directed by Moritz Von Stuelpnagel
JAN 21 - FEB 9, 2025
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