Hagar: War Mother by Aksam Alyousef is based on true events. Hagar is trying to escape a brutal war with her son, when she should be planning his first birthday party. Instead, she’s negotiating with smugglers and betrayed by friends.
It’s a compelling story of motherhood, migration and fighting for those you love, and is especially relevant in today’s global context, with ongoing conflicts in the Middle East and Europe and a refugee crisis in Europe.
Award-nominated actor Amena Shehab is a refugee twice over – born in a Palestinian refugee camp in Syria, she came to Canada to escape the Syrian war.
It had three Canadian runs in Edmonton and Toronto. At the Edmonton Fringe Festival 2019, Amena was nominated for Outstanding Fringe Performance. At Edinburgh Fringe 2024, the play received 5 stars from Broadway Baby – ‘an achingly emotional tour-de-force’. https://broadwaybaby.com/shows/hagar-war-mother/806935.
The company is interested in a UK extended run or national tour, and is open to all opportunities in Europe and globally. The play is versatile – possible with or without projections and sound – lasting 45-60 minutes, and has previously sold out a 200-seat house. Amena is an experienced community workshop leader. Producer Joanna Blundell is based in London to aid logistics.
Creative Team/Artists:
Playwright: Aksam Alyousef
Performer: Amena Shehab
Producer, Director & Stage Manager: Joanna Blundell
Genre: Theatre
Cast Size: One
Touring Party Size: Two (Actor plus stage manager)
Length: 45-60 minutes
Premiere date and location: June 2018 – ATB Financial Arts Barns Studio Theatre, Edmonton, AB, Canada.
Seeking: Extended runs and/or tours in the UK, Ireland, Germany, Sweden and USA, also globally. Able to perform in English and Arabic and lead community workshops.
Performance Fee: Negotiable. Includes flights from Canada for the performer. Accommodation, meals and fees at least at Equity minimum for performer and stage manager.
Project Contact:
Joanna Blundell – Producer, Director, and Stage Manager
