***** I wasn’t sure what I might find tonight as I entered Lookingglass Theatre for the World Premiere of “Iraq, But Funny” written by ensemble member Atra Asdou. How can a history of five generations of Assyrian women, reclaiming their stories be a theatrical experience? Well, I am here to tell you that Asdou ( Actor Number 5 who plays the British Guy) does one heck of a job. This is satire that is true and pure and she has a beautiful way of holding the audience in her hands from the start to the finish.During the 2 hours and roughly 25 minutes ( two acts with a 15 minute intermission) we are treated to many stories about the Middle East as told by an Iraqi. I am sure that true politicos will find fault with many of the notes that are either posted on the back screen or stated by the actors in this brilliant piece of work, but this is a satirical story that is designed to get some points across tot he audience rather than speak to politics of today. Sharply directed by Dalia Ashurina on a set designed by Omid Akbari, Lookingglass Theatre Company has reopened with a show that is designed to show the public a different side of people about whom they are not knowledgeable about. Asdou wrote the play in order to explore the mother/daughter relationship and family/generational relationships out there.
During this experience, we learn a great deal about war and battles that have been plaguing the Middle East for eons. Dealing with war, invasions, religious problems and of course how Great Britain was involved with almost everything that took place over these periods. I found myself learning more about the culture of the people and their country, but at the same time, laughing at some of the situations contained within the story. In addition to Asdou, who by the way is fantastic in her delivery, characters and has a ton of energy, there are 4 additional actors taking on all of the other roles. By the way, they are all highly energetic and talented actors:
Susan Jamshidi, Gloria Imseih Petrelli, James Rana and Sina Pooresmaeil are all terrific and bring out the best of each role they take on.
As many of you know, recently, Lookingglass changed some of its board members and staff. They also took over the Pearson side of the theater and have done a remodeling job that is superior and makes the theater more like a place to visit and be entertained. The front section is no longer a tourist bureau, or library branch, but is now , an inviting lobby to a glorious theater with artwork, a bar and a feeling like” this must be the place”. And for my part, it definitely is!
While this show ( and perhaps its title) might seem to be political, forget that and just enjoy a wonderful theatrical experience. Five actors taking on a multitude of roles bringing to life a satirical look at what people think is the Middle East problem. The projections (Michael Salvatore Commendatore), costumes ( Mara Blumenfeld), sound ( Christie Chiles Twille) and lighting ( Christine A. Binder) are all right on and I was impressed by the music composed for this work (Avi Amon). The set changes are a work of art and the crew that keeps the flow moving do a wonderful job. Due to the intimacy of the way the theater is laid out for this production, we see it all take place, and they do it to perfection.
When they play the game show “Spin Your Fate” in the second act, you will find yourself looking at how lady luck and chance do play a part in everyone’s life.
“Iraq But Funny” will continue thru July 20th with performances as follows:
Tuesday June 17th and July 1- 7:00pm
Wednesdays 7:00pm
Thursdays 1:30pm & 7:00pm
Fridays 7:00pm NO SHOW JULY 4TH
Saturdays 1:30pm & 7:00pm
Sundays 1:30pm
ACCESSIBLE PERFORMANCES:
Mask Required June 13th and July 2nd
Open Caption June 27th
Audio Described June 21st
Relaxed Performance July 6th at 1:30 p.m.
Assistive Listening Devices are available NO CHARGE
Sensory Bags are available NO CHARGE
Lookingglass Theatre is located at 163 East Pearson Street In the Water Tower
Parking discounts are available- check out website for more information
Show Type: Comedy
Box Office: 312-337-0665
To see what others are saying, visit www.theatreinchicago.com, go to Review Round-Up and click at “Iraq, But Funny”.
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