I:RAN

Patrick Khatami is a so-called ‘German-Iranian’, born in Germany and having never been to Iran. In keeping with the spirit of a modern and diverse society, he actually identifies as both: German and Iranian. However, this sense of identity is permeated by a constant ambivalence, which proves to be exhausting; at the same time, it creates spaces of resonance that are only possible because of interculturality. A connection to Iran itself that could be realised in reality seems unattainable due to the brutality of the Islamic regime; a journey there would be too risky, and so Iran exists only as a distant figment of the imagination. This also applies to the parents’ generation, whose experiences of institutional violence and repression mirror those of the people who recently protested in Iran and were mercilessly and bloodily crushed in the process.

This play is about being caught in between, the question of origin and belonging, and the pivotal role played by parents in this. It is about the eternal longing for a country that cannot be liberated and will probably never be visited.

“This charming hotel is situated in the heart of Tehran, in the bustling Monirije district, and impresses with its authentic charm and exquisite Persian cuisine. The spacious, leafy hotel grounds, with their magnificent gardens and elegant sun terrace, invite guests to rest and relax; with their pomegranate trees, palm trees and comfortable sun loungers, they resemble a small oasis. Anyone seeking relaxation, style, warm hospitality and exquisite cuisine will find their own personal paradise in this gem.[...]"