"My English Persian Kitchen" at the Soho Theatre offers a unique blend of storytelling and cooking, but unfortunately, the show’s narrative doesn’t quite live up to its potential. While the concept of intertwining a personal journey with the preparation of a beloved dish is promising, the story felt underdeveloped, leaving many questions unanswered.
Isabella Nefar gives a commendable effort in her performance, but there were moments where the acting seemed to stall. It was unclear whether this was intentional or a lapse in delivery. The character’s hesitation and emotional pauses, while poignant at times, occasionally disrupted the flow of the show.
The cooking elements, while enjoyable, repeatedly interrupted the momentum of the narrative. Though beautifully coordinated, these segments sometimes overshadowed the story rather than complementing it.
The cultural references and themes of migration felt familiar, and while the Wuthering Heights allusions were intriguing, they didn’t fully resonate with the overall storyline.
Despite Nefar’s clear rapport with the audience, the production ultimately felt a little unbalanced, with the cooking overshadowing the deeper themes of the play. While there were moments of engagement, the performance struggled to find its rhythm.
Photo: Ellie Kurtz