English Shines a Spotlight on Diverse Middle Eastern Stories and Identity

Exploring Language and Identity Through Theatrical Art

Sanaz Toossi’s English is lighting up Broadway with a fresh perspective on Middle Eastern narratives. An acclaimed play that runs until March 2 at the Todd Haimes Theatre, it unfolds within the reassuring atmosphere of an Iranian classroom where adult students prepare for their English proficiency exams. Through their trials and tribulations, the characters reveal more than their linguistic skills—they unveil their dreams, frustrations, and identity struggles.

The Power of Communication in Uniting Cultures

The play dives deep into the crux of human connection through the examination of language. Ava Lalezarzadeh, who plays Goli, reflects on how the narrative reaches audiences universally, showing what it feels like to be both an insider and outsider in our increasingly globalized world. “All audience members can resonate with what it’s like to be on the inside and to be on the outside,” Lalezarzadeh reaffirms. This sentiment resonates particularly in today's context where communication barriers often lead to a sense of alienation.

Humanizing Middle Eastern Characters Beyond Tragedy

Traditionally, the representation of Middle Eastern characters in mainstream media has been tied to narratives of conflict and hardship. However, English signifies a departure from this, as Tala Ashe (who plays Elham) expresses hope that such storytelling encourages more subtleties in depicting Middle Eastern lives. “It is inherently political, but it is not sort of pushing an agenda,” Ashe explains, emphasizing that the focus lies on the characters’ humanity rather than a mere political statement.

Universality of Learning a New Language

In the vibrant classroom setting, we see various characters embody the struggles associated with language acquisition—not just for those in Iran, but for anyone who has faced the inherent challenges in bridging cultural divides. As Marjan Neshat, depicting the teacher, shares, “The play is a reminder that it could be about anyone who is trying to learn a language or to fit in.” The threads of humor, culture, and romance run seamlessly through the narrative, often drawing laughter from the audience, while also provoking deeper contemplation about identity and belonging.

Preparing for a Future Rich with Diverse Stories

The emergence of plays like English showcases the need for more diverse stories on theater stages. As actors like Hadi Tabbal emphasize through humor and emotion, the production resonates with many who identify as outsiders. “This is a play about people who are just like anyone else,” Tabbal states, reinforcing the idea that these themes of language and identity transcend borders.

Toossi’s work opens the door for more stories celebrating individuality within a broader cultural context, reminding audiences that learning and connection are shared human experiences.

The closing takeaway is profoundly clear: by viewing diverse narratives, we begin to step away from stereotypical depictions of Middle Eastern lives. English doesn’t merely share a story; it underscores the necessity for diverse voices, allowing those from different backgrounds to be heard and understood. This is only the beginning, and audiences are encouraged to embrace plays that continue to challenge preconceived notions and celebrate the human experience.