Capital Fringe: They Call Me Q

— Guest writer Qurrat Ann Kadwani, from New York City, is an actress, producer, TV Host
and founding Artistic Director of eyeBLINK —
Part of Fringe Peeks, our “in their own words” series

I was born in Mumbai, India and my family immigrated to America when I was three. I saw my first solo play when I was in high school and I was so mesmerized. For years after that, I dragged my friends to so many solo plays. I secretly wanted to create my own. I thought, “I’m not a writer.” But I also needed to know what story to tell. Once I got started writing, I couldn’t stop!

It took me years to write and edit They Call Me Q! I wanted a play that everyone could relate to, that depicted the angst of life but could also be hopeful. There are themes like growing pains, bullying, friendship, loss, gender roles, cultural identity, and acceptance.

After performing all over the country and at colleges, it’s clear to me that theatre can provoke, can make people think and be entertaining. I wanted to write a fun show to make people laugh and create a play I would love to perform!

After playing 13 characters in one hour, I’m usually on a performer’s high and it definitely keeps me on my toes! I play a character I’ve termed the “urban intellect.” She is such a fun character to play! I include playing my parents who are traditional and I try to incorporate the sights and sounds of India. I’ve often thought my life would have been so different if they had stayed in India – and one of my favorite characters address this! Audiences always love the mother character because she reminds them of their moms. I also love portraying different Indian women, with different accents and personalities.

When I first started rehearsing last Fall, it was about memorization and overall beats. Now it’s become about intense character study, pacing and pushing the objectives. In some ways, I’ve even learned about myself – the show triggers other memories.

Theatre is so amazing because of the interaction with the audience. There are many times in my play when I talk directly to them. I feed off their energy. I always try to meet my audiences after the show and hear firsthand what they thought.

I hope that you will come away thinking about culture and its role in our society. I hope you will remember your upbringing and realize that everyone has a story.

See you at the show!

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They Call Me Q! . written and performed by Qurrat Ann Kadwani . Directed by Obaid Kadwani and Claudia Gaspar . Website
This production is presented as a part of the 2013 Capital Fringe Festival, a program of the Washington, DC non-profit Capital Fringe.