“Nassim” is unexpected and absolutely brilliant! In an unconventional show where a new actor performs every night without any prior knowledge of the script or concept of the play, “Nassim” takes us far away into another city, only to bring us home again. It is poignant of the diversity that resides in Vancouver while leaving us with a simple message of unity and belonging.
Nassim Soleimanpour, the writer and performer, is endearing. His story pulls at our heartstrings, teaching us beautiful phrases in Farsi so that we remember those we love – delam tang shodeh.
There is much that can be said about this production, but nothing I say here may appear when you go to watch it. In a way, “Nassim” is very exclusive to those who attend at a particular given time and space. Those who see the play don’t know what it will be like the next night, nor what had taken place the night before. The experimental and experiential nature of the performance is profound. It begins with a confused audience and an even more confused performer who knows nothing as to what she is going to be performing. Now that’s a theatrical challenge. It is neither improv nor scripted – yet both to some extent.
I have enjoyed and relished many plays and theatre productions, but never have I been truly enthralled to write a review as quickly as possible so that everyone can go watch the show. “Nassim” makes one realize how cosmopolitan the theatre scene is in Vancouver – how welcoming of new tongues and stories, embracing them wholeheartedly and learning from them earnestly. After watching the production, I am convinced the innovation is best left to the Iranians!
Get your tickets here!
– Maira Hassan