
“This is also my first time as a producer. It is an entirely different skill, and I’ve learned so much about the craft and how hard it is to put on a production, mainly because I’m doing it all by myself.”
WHO: Tara Tedjarati
WHAT: “A Fire Ignites tells the story of a brave teenage girl, Parisa, in modern-day Iran who sets her hijab on fire in public. Attacked by the morality police for her rebellion, she desires to free her country from oppression. Her best friend is exhausted from fighting and lives in fear of discrimination for her sexual orientation. Parisa’s mother fears for her daughter’s life and struggles to accept her daughter’s fate. A Fire Ignites is written, directed, and produced by Tara Tedjarati, starring Tara Tedjarati as a solo performer. This story is inspired by the brave young women in Iran.”
WHERE: theSpace @ Surgeons’ Hall – Theatre 2 (Venue 53)
WHEN: 09:35 (30 min)
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Is this your first time to Edinburgh?
Yes, this is my first time at the Edinburgh Fringe. It’s so special not only because of its incredible opportunities but also because everyone who goes there adores the arts. It’s a thriving atmosphere and I’m so excited to be a part of it.
What are the big things you’ve learned since 2023 and have you absorbed any of the lessons yet?
I’ve been directing, acting, singing, and writing for many years, and I’ve combined all those skills in this production. This is also my first time as a producer. It is an entirely different skill, and I’ve learned so much about the craft and how hard it is to put on a production, mainly because I’m doing it all by myself. I’ve learned so much about business and running a team. Overall, I’ve learned to combine all my skills to create a production I’m incredibly proud of, focusing on a story that can have a significant social impact.
Tell us about your show.
This show is about brave young women in Iran. It follows 16-year-old Parisa, who lights her hijab on fire and chants “Death to the dictator,” after which the morality police punish her for her rebellion. Her best friend, who shelters her, is full of fear of punishment for her sexual orientation. Parisa’s mother, Yasaman, doesn’t want her daughter to demonstrate, and conflict emerges. Tara Tedjarati, who is of Iranian heritage, plays all three characters. She also wrote, directed, and produced this show. This production is premiering at the Fringe, and the goal is to bring it back to London and beyond.
What should your audience see at the festivals after they’ve seen your show?
They should watch “The Good Iranian”! It’s a comedy that will be a light-hearted relief after our show. People who are fans of Persian culture will enjoy this show as well as ours.
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