“English” at the Tipping Point Theatre

Left to right: Joelle Denhof, Sarab Kamoo, and Chloe Matta. 

English is a comic and heartfelt play about language and identity, set in an Iranian classroom where adult English learners prepare for the TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) exam. The story is brought to life by Sarab Kamoo, who plays Marjan, the English teacher. As Marjan guides her students through their linguistic challenges, the play explores their dreams, frustrations, and secrets, highlighting the tension between learning “English only” and expressing their true selves.

Kamoo’s portrayal of Marjan anchors the emotional core of the play, capturing the complexities of cultural assimilation and the personal struggles of each character. Directed by Suzi Regan, with consulting by Pirooz Aghssa, the production has won critical acclaim and the 2023 Pulitzer Prize. It touches on universal themes of immigration, cultural identity, and the sacrifices made in pursuit of a better life.

Kamoo is sharing the stage with her daughter, Joelle Denhof, who is making her professional theater debut. Through the actor’s powerful performances, English masterfully conveys the balance between preserving one’s heritage and embracing a new language, making the journey of the characters deeply relatable and moving. English runs at Tipping Point Theatre through April 6, and tickets are available on their website tippingpointtheatre.com.