Avaaz

Celebrating the Iranian-Jewish immigrant experience through traditions and humor

Written and performed by Emmy Award nominee Michael Shayan and directed by Tony Award nominee Moritz von Stuelpnagel, Shayan plays the role of his own larger-than-life mother, Roya—who welcomes audiences into her home to celebrate the Iranian New Year, and shares her quintessential American journey from Tehran to “Tehrangeles,” California, formerly known as Westwood. Rich in extravagant humor and heart, Avaaz is at once deeply personal and universal. Its sold out, acclaimed East Coast debut was hailed as “ingenious” and “masterful” by BroadwayWorld and DC Theater Arts.

“It’s an honor to take Avaaz across the country with Moritz and this incredible team, particularly at a time of overwhelming anti-immigrant sentiment,” says Shayan. “Avaaz offers a different narrative and grapples with complex truths in a fabulous, decadent party on stage. I can’t wait to share the magic of ‘Tehrangeles’ with audiences in Chicago and beyond!”