One moment of silence

In Mohammad Yaghoubi’s play “A Moment of Silence,” the protagonist Shiva wakes up to find herself in a drastically changed Iran, having slept through the Islamic Revolution and its aftermath. As she navigates the new reality, she witnesses the profound impact of political upheaval on her family and society.

 

This surreal and poetic narrative intertwines with the grim reality of the “Serial Murders” in Iran, where over 80 dissident intellectuals and political opponents were systematically assassinated by government operatives between 1988 and 19981.

 

The play’s depiction of a society in turmoil mirrors the real-life horrors faced by those who dared to speak out against the regime, highlighting the pervasive fear and repression that stifled intellectual freedom.

The “Chain Murders” serve as a chilling backdrop to Yaghoubi’s story, emphasizing the brutal lengths to which the regime went to silence dissent. Characters in the play, much like the real-life victims, grapple with the loss of loved ones and the constant threat of violence.

 

The fusion of Yaghoubi’s artistic vision with historical events creates a powerful commentary on the intersection of art, politics, and human rights.

 

Through the lens of Shiva’s fragmented reality, the audience is invited to reflect on the sacrifices made by those who fought for freedom and the enduring impact of state-sponsored terror on the collective psyche of a nation.