Iranian Performance Art for Kids and More Opening This Weekend

Iranian performance artist Yaser Khaseb in SCT's Mysterious Gifts: Theatre of Iran. Photo by Chris Bennion

First up in this weekend's openings is the strange and ambitious way Seattle Children's Theatre has decided to launch their '09-'10 season: Mysterious Gifts: Theatre of Iran. Crafted and performed by Iranian performance artist Yaser Khaseb, the show is recommended for children ages 10 and up, but should be at least as (if not more) compelling for adults. In the words of artistic director Linda Hartzell, Khaseb is a "kinesthetic storyteller" who uses both movement and puppetry onstage. It looks to be incredible. (Tickets $20+ childrens, $30+ adults.)

Up at Washington Ensemble Theatre, they're kicking off their season with Neighborhood 3: Requisition of Doom. Jennifer Haley's play is all about power and conformity in suburban American, as revealed through the aegis of an addictive and dangerous zombie horror/action video game. (Tickets $12-$18.)

And finally, the big show that officially opened last night (after a week of previews) is former Houston Oilers safety Bo Eason's one-man show at ACT, Runt of the Litter. Eason's show details the challenges he faced over two decades as he fought to overcome his relatively small stature and make it into the NFL...only to be overshadowed by his bother Tony, the former Jets and Patriots QB. (Tickets $10/$15 children/students, $35.50 and up for adults.)