Qurrat Ann Kadwani Performs One-Woman Show in Long Island City, 11/15

(Press Release) After a successful premiere at this year's Chicago Fringe Festival, actress and playwright Qurrat Ann Kadwani will perform her one-woman show "They Call Me Q!" at Variations Theatre Group: Harvest Theatre Festival in Long Island City on Thursday, November 15 at 9:00 p.m.

"They Call Me Q!" tells the story of Q, an Indian-American woman on the quest for identity.

"Growing up in the Bronx, I had experiences with many diverse people.  I've written characters based on real people who inspired me; who stayed with me in my journey to understand who I am; and who have helped me to become the person I am today," said Kadwani.

"As a South Asian female who immigrated to America with my family, I have come across many challenges in developing and understanding my identity.  I wanted to address the immigrant experience of the person who has grown up in America; who was caught in the middle of American culture; and who has tried so hard to make sure that both cultures have a voice.  I also wanted to address the universal question: What happens when you don't fit in either culture?" she added.

In the course of the one-hour play, Kadwani portrays 13 characters based on her traditional Indian parents, Caucasian teachers, Puerto Rican classmates, African-American friends, and various Indian women.

Through the character of Q, Kadwani gives voice to the struggles of identity and self-understanding that are experienced by immigrants of all nationalities, and in particular South Asians who grew up in America.

Qurrat Ann Kadwani is an actress, playwright, host, emcee, and philanthropist. She is currently the host of Desi Jams on Namaste America (www.namastetv.com).  She is the founding artistic director of eyeBLINK, a multicultural arts organization (www.eyeblink.org). She is a graduate from The Bronx High School of Science, and a theater graduate from SUNY. She has appeared on TV, film, and stage as well as emceed events for several non-profit organizations.  She also coordinates an annual philanthropic project "A Slice of Hope" (www.asliceofhope.com).  She raised funds for charity when she ran the 2007 Marine Corps Marathon (26.2 miles) in Washington DC and the 2009 ING NYC Marathon (26.2 miles).  She is a proud member of AEA and SAG-AFTRA.

For more information, visit qkadwani.com/TheyCallMeQ.

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