“The Transformative Power of Words: A Review of Guthrie’s ‘English'”

This is not the manner in which individuals engage in conversation. They engage in meaningful discussions, declared a character early in English, the Pulitzer Prize-winning play by Sanaz Toossi, currently making its debut on the proscenium stage of the Guthrie Theater in the Twin Cities. The character rightly points out that she and her fellow English students are tasked with mastering seemingly trivial small talk. However, as the uninterrupted -minute show progresses, they delve into essential topics such as the impact of language and speech patterns on personal identity. The exploration of a new language also emerges as a significant theme throughout the play.

The attainment of your life objectives may result in a profound sorrow over a tragedy that could potentially be irreversible. English is a remarkably articulate work in its examination of such themes, and the Guthrie’s rendition, as demonstrated in its recent staging at Chicago’s Goodman Theatre, not only offers a compelling portrayal of characters through five exceptional performances but also provokes contemplation and discourse with its rich insights and thought-provoking queries. The narrative unfolds in a classroom situated in Karaj, Iran, amidst the backdrop of , where four mature individuals convene with their instructor in pursuit of mastering the English language to meet a crucial milestone.

Potential opportunities may be revealed that could benefit them greatly. Roya desires to establish communication with her Canadian granddaughter, Elham for the purpose of encouraging her to pursue medical studies in Australia. Additionally, she aims to assist Omid and Goli in obtaining their green cards for employment prospects abroad. Providing guidance in these matters is Marjan, a woman from Iran who resided in England for a span of nine years and exhibits a strong fondness for the English language. Marjan firmly believes that only English should be used within the classroom setting, implementing a system of demerits to enforce this rule. Consequently, this approach has resulted in conflicts, accusations of favoritism, as well as claims of disrespect towards Iran’s culture and language. Many aspects of the play revolve around these themes.

The students do not adhere strictly to the rules for translation. Rather, they abandon their hesitant and word-searching English in favor of effortlessly spoken American accents, engaging in conversation with remarkable ease. Playwright Toossi cleverly employs this device to demonstrate how an individual can appear as two distinct personalities while speaking different languages. English is a remarkable play that skillfully intertwines authentic conflicts within the intense classroom setting with a generous dose of humor that consistently honors the rich life experiences of its well-defined characters.

Marjan is a character of intricate complexity, exhibiting qualities of both encouragement and authoritarianism, yet concealing a vulnerability that she attempts to conceal. In contrast, Elham, portrayed by Nikki Massoud, delivers a compelling performance, effectively conveying a depth of emotion through her expressive eyes despite language barriers. Sahar Bibiyan impressively portrays Roya, highlighting the dichotomy of personality that language proficiency can create. Lastly, Pej Vahdat captivates with his portrayal of Omid, showcasing intriguing layers of complexity in his character.

Shadee Vossoughi’s play Goli effectively captures the perspective of a youthful observer amidst ongoing conflicts. The set design by Courtney O’Neill skillfully heightens the dramatic tension, juxtaposing the stark modernity of a classroom with expansive bay windows offering a view of a bustling cityscape blending old and new architectural styles. This contrast serves to emphasize the less optimistic aspect of the common adage, When one door closes, another opens. The play English serves as a poignant reminder that this concept can also be reversed – when one door is opened, another may be closing behind. Catch English at the Guthrie Theater until August th.

In Summary

In conclusion, the talented cast of actors in this production bring to life a tapestry of diverse characters, each with their own strengths, weaknesses, and inner struggles. Marjan, Elham, Roya, and Omid offer a glimpse into the complexities of human nature, reminding us that beneath the surface, we all harbor vulnerabilities and contradictions. Through their performances, these actors have succeeded in creating a nuanced and captivating portrayal of individuals grappling with identity, language barriers, and the universal desire for connection. Their artistry leaves a lasting impact on the audience, inviting us to reflect on our own intricacies and the importance of understanding and empathy in our interactions with others.