Fabrizio O. Almeida

What if Neil Simon wrote a loveable comedy about a Muslim-American family trying to hold itself together amidst the misunderstandings that run amuck and the comedy that ensues when the generations collide? It would probably resemble something like the surprisingly enjoyable, charming and oftentimes hilarious "Ten Acrobats in an Amazing Leap of Faith," a Silk Road Theatre Project production of a world-premiere by Muslim playwright Yussef El Guindi. Like Simon, El Guindi proves himself a talented comedy craftsman with a carefully paced, easily digestible, episodic format replete with genuinely funny one-liners that land the humor in the most unexpected of moments. But "Ten Acrobats," with an uncomplicated plot about immigrant parents that lose their grip as they lose their children to multiculturalism, delivers their familiar dysfunctions through the added prism of today's social and political attitudes towards Muslims, imbuing issues of assimilation, atheism, feminism and sexuality with topical urgency. Despite a somewhat schmaltzy feel-good ending, an immensely talented and likeable company of actors brings an authentic family dynamic to the entire proceedings. This is an auspicious Chicago debut for playwright El Guindi, one that smartly stimulates the intellect as well as the funny bone.

"Ten Acrobats in an Amazing Leap of Faith" plays at The Chicago Temple, First United Methodist Church, 77 West Washington, (312)236-6881, through December 30. (2005-11-15)

Also by Fabrizio O. Almeida

Tip of the Week
As far as subject matters go, 9/11 pretty much remains dark, daunting and potentially divisive
(2005-09-27)

Tip of the Week
Early in the second act of Noel Coward's "Design for Living" a successful writer skims reviews of his latest play, one of which declares "...the dialogue is polished, sustains a high level from first to last and is frequently witty, even brilliant." This is an apt description for the limited but enjoyable dramaturgical merits of this campy 1932 high-English comedy
(2005-09-20)

Tip of the Week
Four decades ago a legendary Broadway musical of burlesque stripper Gypsy Rose Lee introduced the theatergoing world to Rose, the meddlesome mother of all stage mothers
(2005-09-13)

Tip of the Week
Do certain professions, like politician and lawyer, adhere themselves to moral bankruptcy?
(2005-08-09)

Tip of the Week
(2005-07-26)

about Newcitychicago | about Newcity magazine | advertising | privacy policy | FAQ | employment