Handala

Handala is an engaging and moving show with a cause. It's a powerful collection of Gaza stories with all proceeds going towards helping victims in Gaza. I loved the creativity and combination of elements from the team to convey the real and touching stories of hardship, resilience, pride and compassion that served as an inspiration for writer-performer Myriam Ali to create this meaningful show. ... full review

Myriam Ali-Ahmad delivers a moving and grounded performance in her solo show Handala. Extremely well-written and directed, the piece is comprised of several stories told through the eyes of people from all walks of life, all handled with so much care by the team. The physicality and vocal control required to pull this off is no small feat, and Myriam never fails to give an incredible performance.... full review

What an important work of theater. Handala allows us to bear witness to each other's humanity, our suffering, our joy, and our history. Thank you to Myriam and the network of artists that participated in the creation and execution of this captivating solo show celebrating the beautiful humans of Palestine.... full review

A beautiful, gentle, culture filled show with a triumphant spirit about Palestine, brought to life by a dynamic and grounded performer. ... full review

I was mesmerized by Myriam; she gave one of the most truthful performances I’ve seen. She is able to take the audience on a journey and captivate them while sharing some of the most important stories ever told. Her essence for each individual character is impressive. The show is honest and leaves audience members with hope— it is the type of theater that matters.... full review

Handala is a touching tribute to the people of Palestine. Myriam Ali-Ahmad is the sole performer and she knocked it out of the park! Not being a performer, nor an artist by any stretch of the imagination, my first thought was "How the hell did she memorize all those lines??" Flawlessly, stories and songs about the people of Palestine, were spun into a beautifully woven tapestry. Through interviews by Myriam, the stories of each came to life. Great direction by the talented Becca Khalil!... full review

Great job on this solo show! Layla Ali Ahmad did amazing job assuming different characters and impersonating many personalities ... full review

Wow. I cried, I laughed, I got goosebumps. Very dynamic and cinematic. Moving and heartwarming. pulling off a one-person show that’s engaging from start to finish is very difficult. She embodied every character, even of different generations - with full mind body soul. ... full review

It's a celebration of life and why stories are so important. Stories are proof that people exist(ed), their history, their humanity, and their culture. All people deserve to be remembered and HANDALA creates an experience to celebrate the Palestinian people with laughter, tears, and dance.... full review

The show was sensational. I was transported to Palestine through the engaging story telling and acting of Myriam. I could smell and see the olive trees as the characters were tending to them . I can see and feel the look on the soldier’s eyes as he is thinking about using his rifle. Myriam did an excellent job bringing these lives forward capturing a full hour of attention from the audience and adding a touch of humor that is so endearing. Bravo!!! ... full review