Sarah is a celebration
of women and resilience in
the midst of war.

SARAH a Physical-Theatre Co-created by By Kurdish choreographer and playwright Hussein Smko, and Tunisian Artist Khalil Ayed. Inspired by the journey of Hussein’s sister Sarah.

We are using the theater as a courthouse under the Ishtar Gates of Babylon for the trial of a woman in time of war, facing a jury of men and patriarchal traditions. When Sarah becomes pregnant, the family faces back trial and must defend and protect Sarah when the man doesn’t show up for the arranged wedding ceremony. Sarah, a proud woman, like the Mesopotamian Goddess of love, war, and fertility Ashtar, never gives up on pursuing her freedom. 

"Supported by New York State Council of the Arts with the support of the Governor and the New York State Legislature."