**** Recommended I really enjoyed Avaaz, a one-man show in which Michael Shayan channels his Iranian-Jewish mother. It’s funny, it’s poignant, it’s touching and it’s really darn hard to review. I can’t even remember how many times I’ve rewritten this intro, not to mention the rest. Enough! It’s a really good show – go see it! 4 Spotlights
As the audience is waiting for the shot to begin, Shayan, wearing a glamorous gold kaftan, dances his way down the stairs, shaking hands, flirting, even asking for a name or two. When he reaches the stage, decorated for Nowruz, Iranian New Year, he welcomes everyone to his home.
Shayan’s love for his mother, who must have been a real charmer, shines through every word he says, even as he recounts her love exasperation with him, her gay son, when he forgets to call. He celebrates her hospitality, her verve, her joy in life, even as he recounts the scary parts.
Shaya’s mother grew up in Tehran, in a comfortable home, at least until the Revolution, when, Tehran became a scary place for Jews. They followed all the new rules, but eventually her father was arrested. Eventually, she got out of Iran, making her home in Los Angeles near a lot of other Iranian emigres.
Michael Shayan wrote as well as performs in Avaaz, which premiered at South Coast Repertory. Avaaz is directed by Moritz von Stuelpnagel, set design by Beowolf Boritt.
Avaaz runs through February 9th in Carl & Marilynn Thoma Theater Upstairs, Chicago Shakespeare Theatre on Navy Pier, Chicago. Parking in CST’s designated area in the Navy Pier Garage is available at a 40% discount with validation from CST.
Running time is 90 minutes without an intermission. Performances are Tuesdays through Fridays at 7:30 pm; Wednesdays at 1:00 & 7:00 pm; Saturday at 2:30 & 7:30 pm; Sundays at 2:30 pm. Tickets start at $70. FYI (312) 595-5600 or www.chicagoshakes.com