The Shakespeare Theatre Company announced that its Youth and Family Series will begin with On the Eve of Friday Morning, a newly commissioned play by award-winning local playwright Norman Allen. Nassrin, a contemporary girl in Iran, spends a night awaiting word of her imprisoned father's fate. To pass the hours, her mother tells her the tale of Mushkil Gusha, a central story of their ancient Persian culture.
As if by magic, Nassrin travels to a distant time to meet strange and wonderful characters and to learn the power of storytelling. Directed by Shakespeare Theatre Company Associate Artistic Director David Muse, the production runs from January 12 to January 19, 2008, at Sidney Harman Hall, with public performances January 12 at 11 a.m. and January 13 and 19 at 11 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. School performances are January 14 and 17 at 12:30 p.m. Muse directs a cast that includes Neema Atri, Ed Chemaly, Judith Delgado, Tiffany Fillmore, Craig Wallace and Anu Yadav. The production is appropriate for ages eight and up.
On the Eve of Friday Morning is sponsored by a grant from Judy and Leo Zickler.
In Iran, Nassrin's father has been imprisoned for teaching banned books. While Nassrin waits for word of his release, her mother tells the ancient Persian tale of Mushkil Gusha, one customarily told before the Friday holy day. Through the magic of storytelling, Nassrin steps into the story, where she meets Bahad, a boy from a thousand years ago. Together they meet unusual characters, visit worlds beyond the clouds, and learn the ways of the mysterious Mushkil Gusha. On her adventure, Nassrin discovers the importance of passing on good fortune to those in need.
"The characters in On the Eve of Friday Morning aren't religious extremists or the political enemies of our government," said director David Muse. "They are normal boys and girls and mothers and fathers. In today's world, a play that focuses on the common humanity that unites us rather than the differences that divide us is a rare thing."
"The original inspiration for this play lies in my frustration with hearing Iran described in broad, sweeping and dismissive language – specifically as part of the 'axis of evil,'" said playwright Norman Allen. "Certainly many of the Iranian government's policies are deeply disturbing, but I'm not ready to dismiss the people of an entire country as evil. After all, Iran used to be Persia, and the riches to be found in exploring Persian culture are boundless. I hope the play encourages people, young and old, to look beneath the surface – to go beyond the political jargon or the news headlines." -- www.shakespearetheatre.org
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#1 Norman Allen - On the Eve of Friday Morning
12 January 2008
My boyfriend and I just returned from seeing Norman Allen's, On the Eve of Friday Morning, at the Shakespeare Theatre Company's Sidney Harman Hall in DC. The first performance & show in their Youth & Family Series.
This is the first production I have seen by Mr. Allen I must say it was fantastic! Engaging from the first strains of music, lighting, sets and verse, the audience is drawn into the world of modern Iran and taken back 1000 years to ancient Persia. The story is both old and new with lessons of life that only experience can understand. Just over 60 minutes in length and not one noise from the audience of children and adults, except laughing at certain very entertaining moments!
Mr. Allen has given us more than a storytelling experience. He has given us a opportunity to think beyond our "comfort zone". How many people actually take the time/opportunity to "step through the door and into life" instead of just living day by day? On the Eve of Friday Morning, gave the audience more than a story eloquently portrayed by 6 wonderful actors. It gave you a chance to actually think about our choices in life, how we treat others and our societies thirst for materialism. Do we need to survive and be comfortable with hearts open to all or do we need the "biggest", the "most expensive", the "most prestigious" to make ourselves feel important? How much posturing do you do and have in your life?
This show lived up to the excellent standards one would expect from the Shakespeare Theatre Company. I commend them on including this work in their educational repertoire. I only wish there would be a longer engagement for it then 1 week & 10 performances. More people should have the opportunity to be exposed to the gift of this show. I know I'll be spreading the word very quickly! Personally I can't wait for Mr. Allen's next production.