Q&A With Brent Askari, Playwright of The Refugees

GULFSHORE PLAYHOUSE: What inspired you to write this play? Share the origins of the idea and how it developed. Were there any specific challenges or breakthrough moments during the writing process?
I am the product of a biracial marriage: my father is a Shiite Muslim from Iran; my mother an Episcopalian from New England. Growing up, I saw a lot of my father’s family coming over to the United States after fleeing the regime in Iran. At some point, I wondered…what if it had been my mother’s family fleeing New England and ending up in the Middle East?

To flesh out this imagined scenario, I invented a civil war in the United States, something which at the time felt like a wild idea; unfortunately, the potential threat of political violence in our country has increased, making the backstory of the play seem more and more plausible – it’s scary to see reality tiptoeing towards what was once my wildest imagination.

GP: The Refugees touches on many relevant themes, topics, and cultural issues. What draws you to tackle those ideas in your work?
I don’t tend to start plays from the level of theme – I like for themes to emerge and to present themselves during the process of writing. I think I’m subconsciously drawing on the world and cultural issues and incorporating them into my plays; it’s only as I start re-writing that I actually learn what I’m wrestling with in telling a particular story.

GP: How closely did you work with the director during the New Works Festival? Were there any collaborative moments that significantly influenced the production?
Marshall and I worked very closely together during two appearances at the New Works Festival! There were really too many collaborative moments to mention — he has been an extremely helpful soundboard and provided valuable feedback throughout the entire process. I’m excited and honored to be collaborating with him once again on this world premiere.

GP: Are there any unique elements in the script or production that you’re particularly excited about?
I’m thrilled to be working with some fantastic actors who have previously workshopped the play along with several wonderful new additions! I’m also excited, after seeing the play read at music stands, to finally see it come to life with sets, lights, sound, costumes, and all the other technical elements.

GP: How does it feel to have your play presented as a world premiere?
Like my birthday and Christmas together.

What is one thing you hope the audience takes away from the show?
I try to avoid having a didactic message that I want to impart on the audience. While this play deals with some cultural issues, I don’t have specific ideologies or policies that I’m trying to push. I’d be happy if people walk away from this play with maybe just a little more empathy and humility.