Earworm – Simiya

The captivating story of EARWORM, a Nowadays Theatre production in association with Crow’s Theatre. Written and directed by Mohammad Yaghoubi, this compelling play explores the intricate dynamics between Homa, a long-time immigrant from Iran, and her son, who is in love with a conservative Muslim woman.

Performed in both English and Persian (Farsi) by the same cast, EARWORM delves into the intricacies of Homa’s life as she navigates her past experiences of persecution by the Islamic regime in Iran and its impact on her family’s future happiness in present-day Toronto.

Photo by Dahlia Katz

Drawing inspiration from real events, this thought-provoking production presents a vivid portrayal of the profound and enduring effects of the Iranian revolutions of 1979 and 2022. Throughout the play, themes of love, power, parenting, and political asylum intertwine, weaving an unforgettable narrative that highlights the strength of human connections amidst adversity.

An emotional and introspective journey with Homa as she grapples with her turbulent past, her family’s future, and the complexities of a world that continues to change around her.

Earworm had its world premiere proudly presented by Nowadays Theatre in association with Crow’s Theatre on February 6, 2024. Due to its success, the run was extended until March 3rd.

CAST
Aida Keykhaii – Homa / Amir Maghami – Pendar / Amir Zavosh – Mohammad / Parya Heravi – Fatemeh

Production Team:
Mohammad Yaghoubi – Playwright and Director
Amin Shirazi – Set Designer
David DeGrow – Lighting Designer
Sina Shoaie – Sound Designer
Honey Hoseiny, Arman Moghadam, Majid Kiamehr (Simiya Group) – Visual Art and Video Mapping
Farshad Fozooni – Musician
Anisa Tejpar – Intimacy Director
Aaheli Mukherjee – Production Manager
Sabrina Weinstein – Stage Manager
Amir Parsa – Assistant Director & Assistant Stage Manager
Kimia Oloub – Assistant Director
Kiarash (Kiaa) Aalipour – Public Relations and Marketing
Ali Mostolizadeh – Photographer and Videographer

“EARWORM IS AS GORGEOUS AS IT IS THOUGHT-PROVOKING.” “... Earworm is made all the more compelling by video and projection designs, which beam Farsi translations and video snippets onto the bare back wall of set...”

Aisling Murphy Intermission Magazine

“Earworm at Crow’s Theatre is a must-see amid foreign interference inquiry.”

J.Kelly Nestruck The Globe and Mail

“Earworm is a deeply considered, intense and compassionate piece of theatre.” ... “Imagery projected on the back wall, designed by Honey Hoseiny and Arman Moghadam, provide further visual interest and Brechtian immersion.”

Istvan Dugalin Theatre Reviewer

“An outstanding world premiere that is pensive and shocking” ... “Projections were artful and, at times, staggering.”

Dave Rabjohn Our Theatre Voice

“Earworm’ is a thought-provoking, engaging world premiere play.” ... “The team who worked on the videography and video mapping are extraordinary. The use of projection throughout the piece allowed us to have multiple languages being understood simultaneously, with Persian captions appearing during the messages left for Homa by her listeners, and English surtitles appear throughout the Persian language performances. It also gives the podcast portions a feel as if we’re watching a YouTube video, with plenty of graphics and clips to back up what Homa is talking about..”

Janine Marley A View From The Box

“EARWORM’ DIGS INTO THE SKIN AT CROW’S THEATRE”

Andrea Perez Next Magazine