Brahman/i presented by Silk Road Rising at Chicago Temple

Chicago Tribune - Somewhat Recommended

"...If a play like this is to fully work, it has to deliver on its conceit. As directed by Andrew Volkoff, it zooms along - through jokes, personal anecdotes and sardonic asides about Stonehenge - with unvarying velocity. But comedians are meticulous about timing and how they unfurl an act, and at 1 hour, 45 minutes, the minimal blocking options and uninterrupted tempo become cracks in the show's facade."

Chicago Sun Times - Recommended

"...To fully translate the show's title: In Hinduism, Brahman is "the unchanging reality amidst and beyond the world ... which cannot be exactly defined," while "Hijra" is the Hindu term commonly used for those who are born male but identify and live as women. It is the grown-up intersex baby, dubbed Brahman, who tells her story in the guise of a stand-up comedy act here. And in this age when "identity" seems to be the obsessive quest, and when "selfies" have become the art form du jour (perhaps there is a connection), "Brahman/i" certainly has plenty to work with."

Time Out Chicago - Highly Recommended

"...Using the rhythms and tropes of stand-up, the character recounts an unusual journey to the stage: Asked to choose a gender assignment once old enough, young Brahman went with boy until he was 14 and started developing breasts; in high school, Brahmani decided she'd try on presenting as a girl. Kapil masterfully weaves this personal history with sharp observations about Hindu tradition and the British colonization of India, with anecdotes like Brahman/i's mother's obsession with British-beige interior design motifs slyly suggesting the ways a culture can remain colonized long after the occupation has ended."

Chicago Stage and Screen - Highly Recommended

"...The one hour and 45 minute journey tugs at your heart strings and tickles your funny bone. The play educates and illuminates. Kudos to Ms. Mirza for memorizing what is essentially a one actor play. Damian Conrad as J. is the actor in the shadows. His presence is always known. He accompanies Fawzia with electric bass to cover her theatrical beats or stories and allows her to refresh with bottled water to keep her smooth as silk vocal instrument hydrated. His portrayal of J. is understated brilliance and you know there is a “story there” between him and Braham. I spoke with both of the actor’s understudies and the said they will get to perform the show for at least one performance for the production staff and their families. Kudos to the young talents that have to work behind the scenes to be ready at a moments notice."