Haram Iran at Athenaeum Theatre

Windy City Times - Somewhat Recommended

"...Haram Iran director David Zak largely ( and aptly ) has utilized actors of Middle Eastern and South Asian heritage, still far from the norm in Chicago. Anand Bhatia ( Mahmoud ) and Matios Simonian ( Ayaz ) are tender friends who develop their growing spiritual bond well, albeit incredibly naively, as sketched by Deratany. All other players are capable, but have one-dimensional roles."

Chicago Free Press - Recommended

"...Deratany’s unrelenting script is short on subtlety but powerful in purpose. Using a narrative device that’s reminiscent of “Kiss of the Spider Woman,” he cleverly weaves the doomed love story of the teens Ayaz and Mahmoud around a retelling of the classic American coming-of-age novel “Catcher in the Rye.”"

Chicago Stage Review - Recommended

"...Haram Iran is an indictment of religious mercilessness, misinterpretation and corruption, and not a condemnation of Islam. Playwright Jay Paul Deratany tells the terrifying story with impressive conviction and passion but his script would be well served by rewriting and editing. Some scenes meander and drag while others are completely captivating. Deratany’s obvious talent and ability simply needs some polish and restraint."