Conquering nations can be a riot

A laugh-out-loud comical attack of geopolitical humor invades Lookingglass Theater in “Iraq but Funny.” Playwright / performer Astra Asdou recalls the history of the Assyrian people through this semi-autobiographical story of five generations of the women in her family.

The production has an improvisational vibe, brilliantly directed by Dalia Ashurina.

Asdou herself skillfully takes on the persona of a ridiculous, uniformed, pith helmet wearing, mustachioed British army officer who in a stand-up comedy style acts as narrator.

Four other actors (Susaan Jamshidi, Gloria Imseih Petrelli, James Rana, Sina Pooresmaeil ) rotate through multiple roles, presenting a series of vignettes that ultimately reveal, the more things change the more they remain the same.

Highly Recommended.

The ultimate court jester, Asdou reveals how absurd those in power appear when viewed from a distance.

Iraq, But Funny, at Lookingglass Theater through July 20,2025 in Water Tower Water Works at Michigan Ave., 163 E. Pearson St., Chicago. Running time is 2 and a half hours with one 15 minute intermission. Lookingglasstheater.org