“Avaaz” Lights Up the Stage at Chicago Shakes
By Catherine Rees-Hessel
Chicago Shakespeare’s stellar production of “Avazz” is an absolute winner – it shines with the brightness we have come to expect from this world class theater. The moment you enter the venue the excitement builds. The set is stunning, with crystal chandeliers, lovely vases, candles, and a beautiful pink curtain backdrop. Three large mirrors and illuminating lighting are also significant in the dramatic moments of this well directed and beautifully written play. Front and center are festive holiday foods including sprouts, which remove bad luck and make room for good fortune. A large glass bowl of apples dominates a portion of the laid out feast – they signify beauty. The celebration has been prepared and you are a guest.
I can’t say enough good things about this one man show; playwright Michael Shayan is a very talented actor, as well, full of stage presence, impeccable comic timing, and completely credible. This excellent theatrical work honors his mother – I left the theater wanting to be besties with this fabulous woman that he lovingly portrays exquisitely. Just hearing stories about her education – getting her bachelor’s and master’s degrees in California, American life, visiting Equinox Fitness club, and her role as a mom bring her beautifully to life. An adorable story about the guys constantly at the gym taking selfies and this wonderfully inquisitive mother’s curiosity as to their employment which allows them to have so much time off; we learn they are, in her words, “influenzas”. She is the princess of the Beauty Palace, and her friendship with a fellow hair salon regular is both poignant and humourous.
Michael’s costume and accent are completely perfect, clearly conveyed right from his own experiences. He moves from humor to drama and back very smoothly with completely lifelike progressions, giving a flawless performance. Mr. Shayan breaks the fourth wall with ease, with natural audience interactions – a phone call involving one of the theatre patrons is absolutely hilarious, shedding more light on the adorable mom he believably characterizes. I absolutely love the use of Cher’s “Turn Back Time” throughout this one act, and some fun dance moves are incorporated to give the audience a chance to utilize some shoulder action from their seats. Micheal even references Amazon’s Alexa from the stage.
Directed most ably by Moritz von Stuelpnagel, there is something for everyone in this comedic drama. The energy level never falters and Mr. Shayan is extremely relaxed, even while drinking a cup of coffee and chatting amicably. I went out proud of the Persian Jewish part of my heritage and felt like I had made a friend – Michael makes the audience feel welcome and at home. This is truly one of the best one man plays I have ever seen. “Avaaz” is honest, open, entertaining, and empowering. Get your tickets before this production leaves February 9th to continue its tour across the country – see www.chicagoshakes.com to make your reservation for the party.
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