1. ABOUT THE PLAY
English is a moving and funny story about a group of adults learning a new language in a small classroom in Iran. As they prepare for a big test that could change their lives, they not only practice vocabulary and grammar – they also share hopes, fears, and secrets. In this class, every sentence matters — and every choice brings them closer to who they want to be.
2. MEET THE AUTHOR
Sanaz Toossi is an Iranian-American playwright from Orange County, California. Her plays include the critically acclaimed, Pulitzer Prize-winning English and Wish You Were Here.
She has also written on the TV shows "A League of Their Own" (Amazon) and "Five Women" (Marielle Heller/ Big Beach).
She holds a Master of Fine Arts from NYU Tisch School of the Arts.
The Pulitzer Prize
The play English stands out because it won a 2023 Pulitzer Prize.
This is one of the most prestigious awards in the United States. It’s given every year to recognize outstanding achievements in journalism, literature, and music. Winning a Pulitzer means the work is considered one of the best in its field — whether that’s a powerful news story, an incredible novel, or an amazing play.
Have students get to know authors better using this activity.
3. WHEN AND WHERE
TIME: 2008
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Iranian Revolution of 1979 instrumental in shaping the country in the decades following
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2008 is part of the lead up to 2009 Green Movement
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Characterized by “government meddling and censorship”
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High number of student arrests between 2007-2008 “emigration of highly educated or trained citizens”
SETTING: KARAJ, IRAN
The largest suburb of Tehran (the country's capital). It lies about 20 miles to the west.
Have students learn more about the 2008 and what was happening at the time.
4. GOOD TO KNOW
In the play English, we meet a group of Iranians who are learning to speak English for a variety of reasons.
Use this activity to explore language and its role in the show
Test of English as Foreign Language (TOEFL)—An exam that measures English fluency for learners in non-English speaking countries
5. WHO'S WHO
Read the descriptions below and click on each photo for the actor’s bio.
Marjan - the teacher of the class. She lived in England for years and loves the English language. She wants her students to speak only English in class, even when it’s hard. Marjan is patient and caring, but sometimes strict. She believes learning English can open doors—and change lives.
Key Traits:
Wise
Encouraging
Determined
"I want you to hear your voice and fall in love with what it becomes."
Jamie Rezanour
Marjan
Elham - 28 and wants to go to medical school in Australia. She’s smart and strong-willed, but English feels like a battle. She has taken the TOEFL test many times and needs a high score to reach her dream. Elham speaks her mind and doesn’t like to lose.
Key Traits:
Ambitious
Competitive
Bold
"I am not an idiot. And also I am nice."
Shadee Vossoughi
Elham
Roya - 54 and learning English so she can talk to her granddaughter in Canada. She loves her family and calls them often, even when they don’t answer. Roya is warm and funny, but she worries about losing her connection to home.
Key Traits:
Loving
Hopeful
Stubborn
"I just want her to know me."
Pantea Ommi
Roya
Omid - 29 and charming. He speaks English well and dreams of getting a green card—but he also hides a secret. He wants to belong, but isn’t sure where. Omid is helpful and kind, and he makes people laugh.
Key Traits:
Confident
Friendly
Curious
"I made you laugh. In English. I didn’t know I could do it."
Nima Rakhshanifar
Omid
Goli - 18 and the youngest in the class. She loves English and thinks it makes her feel taller and braver. Goli is sweet and optimistic, even when she struggles. She wants to learn everything—and make friends along the way.
Key Traits:
Cheerful
Open-hearted
Determined
"When I speak English, it’s like there are no question marks at the end of my sentences."
Vaneh Assadourian
Goli
Use this activity to explore the characters more deeply.
6. YOUR PART IN THE PLAY
The show can't happen without an audience. Watch the video for some great advice on playing your part.
BONUS ACTIVITY
AUDIENCE ETIQUETTE
After watching the video, improvise scenes where you encounter the best and worst audience members. If you create something fun and want to share it, tag us at @alleytheatre on Instagram or Facebook for a chance to be featured on our social platforms.
7. POST-SHOW TALKBACK
If you and your students plan to participate in the post-show talkback, encourage them to ask questions!
