Teesri Duniya Theatre marks 45th season with socially charged play Behind the Moon
Montreal-based Teesri Duniya Theatre (TDT) is set to launch its 45th season with Behind the Moon, a production that examines migration, masculinity and the lived experiences of immigrant workers through an intimate, character-driven narrative. Running from April 3 to April 19 at Rangshala in the Cité-des-Hospitalières, the play arrives amid ongoing public debate around immigration and labour conditions in Canada and across the Western world.
Directed by Chelsea Dab Hilke, the production centres on three male characters whose intersecting lives reveal emotional vulnerability and social pressures often left unspoken. Hilke emphasized the importance of portraying men beyond traditional stereotypes.
“It’s important to show men in their complexity; with care, nuance and love. There is a very real epidemic of loneliness among men, which is addressed in the play — here we see men caring for each other in meaningful ways,” she said.
Immigration and labour narratives take centre stage
The play also addresses broader socio-political themes, particularly immigration and its portrayal in public discourse. Hilke pointed to the growing politicization of migration in recent decades.
“Immigration and migration are hot button topics these last few decades, especially in conservative politics. Immigrants are being scapegoated across the western world to defer blame for larger failing systems by failing governments. It’s crucial to be discerning about how immigration issues are framed.”
For TDT Artistic Director Varma, the production reflects the often-overlooked realities of immigrant labour, particularly in service industries.
“Migrant stories are rich, diverse and abundant, but never monolithic — and they remain untold,” said TDT’s Artistic Director Varma. “We regularly encounter restaurant workers from other parts of the world. They frequently operate in challenging, high-stress environments, often for low pay, and endure long, physically demanding shifts while navigating toxic workplaces and unpredictable customer behaviour. Our goal is to showcase the humanity and courage of this workforce, which was promised more than what many actually experience. The play captures this struggle beautifully.”
Performers highlight emotional depth of characters
The cast brings together actors who connect personally and professionally with the material. Aladeen Tawfeek, who portrays Jalal, a late-night cab driver, said the script by playwright Anosh Irani offers a layered and introspective acting experience.
“Anosh Irani’s writing is compelling for an actor. It asks you to listen closely to what is not being said; to explore the inner life of a character rather than simply the events of the story. I was moved by the humanity of the piece, and the tenderness with which it observes people who are often invisible,” said Tawfeek. “They carry memories, expectations, family obligations and dreams that don’t always align with their current situation. That tension between hope and reality is deeply understood on a very personal level.”
Similarly, Adolyn H. Dar, who plays Ayub, an overworked restaurant employee, sees the narrative as part of a broader historical continuum tied to colonialism and economic inequality.
“Even within our own cultures and ethnicities we are forced to compete with each other just to get ahead. It’s tragic. But also, we are our own salvation,” commented Dar.
Production design and accessibility initiatives
The production features a creative team of award-winning and nominated designers contributing to its visual and auditory elements. Set design is led by Diana Uribe, with costumes by Georges Michael Fanfan, lighting by Jordana Natale, and original music and sound by Rehan Lalani. Stage management is handled by Abi Sanie.
In a move aimed at improving accessibility, TDT has introduced a new tiered ticketing system for the 2026–27 season, offering reduced pricing across all performances. Tickets for Behind the Moon range from $15 to $28, with additional discounts available for students, seniors and groups.
Performance schedule and audience engagement
Performances are scheduled for 7 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday, with additional matinées on select dates. The production will also include post-show talkbacks, including a session with the playwright, offering audiences an opportunity to engage more deeply with the themes and creative process.
The play’s message is encapsulated in a line from the character Qadir Bhai: “To get something you have to lose something. That’s what migration does.”
As Canadian audiences continue to grapple with questions around immigration, labour and identity, Behind the Moon positions itself as both a timely and humanizing contribution to the national conversation.