Theatre Review: I'm Muslamic Don't Panik, Tobacco Factory Theatres

Summary

 Rating: ★★★

 Running Dates: 19 September 2023 – 20 September 2023

 Where to see it: Tobacco Factory Theatres

 Duration: 60 minutes (no interval)

 Keywords: Live Music, Comedy, Hip-Hop

Review

 There is a sense of cosy familial intimacy when entering the theatre. In the background a photo montage by Bobak Champion plays showcasing photos of his family and travels and the stage is filled with other personal mementos, preparing you for the joyful showcase that is in store for the rest of the evening.

 The show starts with Bobak singing in Farsi while amongst the audience, building up the anticipation for the rest of the show while also somehow soothing you. This main character has a way of making those who are there for the play to feel at ease and the audience interaction moments will have you laughing early into the show. Throughout the next hour he shares the story of the journey of acceptance of his Iranian heritage and his experiences using various stories told in the point of view of different characters and personal anecdotes.

 Throughout the play, we meet various characters during the play, including Rob who represents the view of those in the English Defence League (EDL) of that time with a dislike of refugees or anyone he does not consider British along with a sympathetic bartender.

 We are brought along on the journey of what it was like for his family growing up in Bristol and sharing the racism they had to face along with the realisation that he was seen as different by some due to his heritage. While sharing the various stories from childhood, his trip to Tehran with his family as a young teen and leading to present day, we are given an insight into what Bobak’s personal journey was like and even on the growth he himself has experienced. The contrasts of the kindness he is shown in Tehran with the stories of the oppressive government and how he then tries to find similarities in the two cultures has been depicted well.

 In what is essentially a one man show, the transitions are mostly handled smoothly while combining it with music and dancing to keep the play light-hearted even while touching on some deeper political aspects including the freedom of women and the way the Middle East is depicted by the media. At times, the transitions between the characters are a little hard to follow and it feels like a lot more could be delved into but none of that takes away from the overall message of the play or the comedic and heart-warming effect he manages to put on even the toughest stories he shares. Without giving too much away, this is definitely a play to be seen for those looking for a light-hearted comedic evening with insight into the two worlds colliding and also for fans of live music and spoken word.

Standout Moment: The saxophone solo and hip-hop routines

 See if: You are looking for a heart-warming play that will leave you laughing

 Last Impression: Remember to stay for the traditional snacks and tea after the show!

 Written by Annabel Leo