TL;DR
- E. Zalaan’s ‘Syrian Soap’ is a transformative performance.
- Mixes humor with deep reflections on identity and ancestry.
- Showcases a unique intergalactic bathhouse setting.
- Explores themes of exile, revolution, and joy.
- A must-see at festivals in LA and NYC.
Step into the whimsical and profound world of Syrian Soap, where laughter meets the complexities of the human experience. This isn’t just any performance; it’s an intergalactic bathhouse journey led by the fabulous E. Zalaan, a comedian and clown who knows how to blend humor with heart. As the soft tunes of Najat Al Saghira fill the air, Zalaan, embodying the character of The Ancestor, invites us to reflect on our lives, our ancestors, and the truths we often overlook.
Set against the backdrop of the performing arts festival The Joy Who Lived at The Hudson Theater in Los Angeles, this show is a riot of laughter and introspection. Zalaan’s character, The Ancestor, is a 2000-year-old SWANA man, draped in traditional attire, who serves up classic Arabic one-liners while navigating the existential crises of his Descendant, a character grappling with modern-day struggles.
“Look, I don’t know what the future holds. But, I do believe that one day, we will be returned to our lands, and the borders will open,” The Ancestor muses, reminding us all of the hope that exists even in the darkest of times. Zalaan’s performance is a masterclass in comedy, using laughter to tackle heavy themes like exile, identity, and revolution.
But it’s not just about the laughs. Zalaan’s journey into comedy was born from a desire to honor the legacy of those lost during the Syrian Revolution. “I asked him, what can I do to continue to honor your life, in my own life? And the answer that I felt I got was, to use my voice to tell the truth,” they share, showcasing the power of art as a tool for advocacy.
The show cleverly intertwines the past and present, with a corded telephone serving as a bridge between The Ancestor and his Descendant. This device is not just a prop; it symbolizes the connection between generations, the wisdom passed down, and the struggles that remain unchanged. Zalaan’s character navigates the absurdities of life, offering sage advice to audience members grappling with everything from anxiety to failed relationships.
As the performance unfolds, Zalaan invites audience members to participate, creating an interactive experience that breaks down barriers and fosters community. One moment, they’re performing a bubble gun battle with the audience, the next, they’re delivering poignant insights about identity and belonging.
“The drag gives you this aura of strength and silliness that is a weapon that immediately brings people in and it brings a smile to their face,” Zalaan explains, highlighting how performance art can serve as a powerful medium for expression and connection.
As the show progresses, Zalaan sheds layers, both literally and metaphorically, revealing the complexities of their identity and the struggles faced by those in the LGBTQ community. The humor is sharp, the insights profound, and the overall experience is nothing short of transformative.
In a world that often feels heavy with pain and suffering, Syrian Soap reminds us of the importance of joy, laughter, and connection. Zalaan’s artistry is a beacon of hope, inviting us all to reflect on our own lives and the legacies we carry. If you’re in Los Angeles or New York City this June, make sure to catch this incredible show. You won’t just leave entertained; you’ll leave changed, feeling as if you’ve stepped into a bathhouse of wisdom and warmth.
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