Disgraced: When We Could Talk Religion
As neat and benign as it appears, this New York apartment is to be a backdrop for a stormy voyage through the notions of self-denial, self-loathing, and ingrained cultural tensions which form the backbone of the Tony Award-nominated play, Disgraced. If you seek a theatrical experience which is unsparingly real, Disgraced is your best answer in town right now.
To give you a brief idea, Disgraced is a story of an American-Pakistani lawyer, Amir, who casts aside the inborn connections to his traditions and religion in order to pursue the American Dream in the post-9/11 era. The play mirrors the ubiquitous tragedy in racially and religiously diverse societies wherein individuals (especially those belonging to minority groups) feel compelled to abandon their time-honoured traditions for the supposedly more progressive ethos hypocritically determined by the majority.
Any attachment to one’s roots is deemed retrograde and does not warrant a headway towards the American Dream, which equates to success. Does this tragedy ring a bell? Why do some of us have English or Western names despite our origins? Have you felt disinclined to speak your native tongues or eat with your hands because you are conscious of others’ perceptions of you? Disgraced explores such large and strikingly pertinent issues with meticulous attention to details that will engross you throughout the play’s duration.
Source: Singapore Repertory Theatre
Disgraced manages to impart a striking message whilst remaining undiplomatic in its political agenda. The thriving Islamophobia, the specious acceptance of differences, the rotten institution of marriage, the monolithic white supremacy, to name but a few, are all placed under harsh spotlight for scrutiny. The violence of this interrogation is as real and intense as our attempt to conceal such issues. In this respect, Disgraced marks extraordinary progress in Singapore’s political discourse. After the curtain call, the director, actors, actresses and a special guest speaker even take time to discuss with the audience the political issues that emerge during the course of the play. It was a lovely experience, especially because when I went the audience was a variegated bunch and everyone was willing to share their unique voices.
Alternatively, you can take the play as a post-finals retreat. Bring some friends, grab some wine or whatever your drink of choice, and head into the theatre. You’ll get more than mere entertainment – that’s a guarantee. Disgraced is open until the 9th of December. Grab your tickets now!