Live and in person at the Studio Theatre, Theatre Aquarius, as part of the Hamilton Fringe, running until July 28.
Written and performed by Izad Etemadi
Directed by Matt White
The audience advisory warning in the program should give you an idea of the serious and loopy mind we are dealing with in Izad Etemadi’s wonderful show: “Let Me Explain.”
“The play discusses racism, homophobia, terrorism, religion, and features a fare share of swearing. Viewers may experience therapeutic laughter and should not start the show with a full bladder. Recommended for age 13+ years. “
Izad (pronounced: eee-zad) Etemadi (pronounced: Eht- eh-mahdi with the accent on the last syllable), describes himself as a “queer Iranian-Canadian immigrant born in German (in a refugee camp). Much of his efforts growing up were spent in explaining how to pronounce his name to people; ‘where he REALLY came from;’ dealing with racist boorish teachers who thought he was a terrorist, and trying to fit in in a quiet way. He has given up trying to correct people who get his name wrong; who think it’s too hard to grasp; or perhaps who are fundamentally stupid and too lazy to try. This is regrettable. It’s his name. It’s important to get it right, and certainly when we learn what the name “Izad” means.
Izad Etemadi is an irreverent, funny, graceful comedian and performer in this case (he’s also a gifted actor), who takes his life experiences and finds the humour and truth in each moment. He knows how to read the room and engage immediately with those in the audience and include them in his observations. He is ably directed by Matt White who has a keen eye and a light touch in directing.
He was consumed with fear when he came out to his parents: what would these traditional folks think? Would his being gay be culturally unacceptable? Surprises abound in “Let Me Explain.” It’s a show filled with perceptions of attitudes towards immigrants; the difference between someone who says they are from Iran or from Persia; auditions, and proud parents who want what’s right for their kid.
For those who got his name wrong try and wrap your tongue around the Welsh town named:
Llanfairpwllgwyngyllgogerychwyrndrobwllllantysiliogogogoch which sounds like so many sneezes, coughs and ‘horks’ to dislodge something deep in the throat. Izad Etemadi on the other hand is a name full of music. And the man who owns it is one talented comedic actor who has created in “Let Me Explain,” a gift of a show.
The Hamilton Fringe Festival and Green Light Arts Present:
Playing: July 21, 23, 26, 27, 28.
Running time: 55 minutes (no intermission)