There’s a point in Return Ticket where it really hits home that playwright Shahin Sayadi (played by Theo Pitsiavas) has put himself in danger by returning to his hometown in Iran. He has been interviewing people for a play he hopes to write about his uncle, a “sacred martyr” in government terms, but an intriguing, peace-loving man to his nephew. Sayadi is summoned to meet with Iranian Intelligence, and the subsequent investigation (by Marty Burt, who also plays several other roles) is harrowing and memorable. The play does a wonderful job of exploring ideas such as loyalty, censorship and the meaning of “home”. The use of technology—-cell phones, cameras and laptops—-is integral to the story, and is woven into the play in effective and creative ways. The loving relationship between Sayadi and his family in Halifax (Bridget Bezanson and Azat Sayadi) gives the play an emotional centre so that it becomes much more than just an exploration of important issues.
Neptune Studio Theatre, 1593 Argyle Street, November 20-28
TICKETS – $17 (student, seniors, groups of 8 or more) $23 (regular)
Matinee Special – Bring 3 items (or more) for FEED NOVA SCOTIA and get a matinee ticket for $10
PWYC Preview – Friday, Nov. 20
Buy online (PayPal) at www.onelighttheatre.com or call 902-425-6812
This article appears in Nov 19-25, 2009.