Talking to Terrorists

Synopsis

A collage of voices from across the globe, spanning intimate confessions and public testimonies.

Robin Soans weaves together the stories of former terrorists, politicians, diplomats, and victims to create a complex tapestry of conflict and reconciliation. From IRA members to Kurdish freedom fighters, from diplomats in Uzbekistan to aid workers in war-torn countries, each character offers a unique perspective on the causes, consequences, and human cost of political violence. As their narratives intersect and diverge, we witness the blurred lines between victim and perpetrator, the cyclical nature of violence, and the fragile possibility of peace.

Soans employs a documentary-style approach, using verbatim accounts to explore the psychology of extremism, the machinations of global politics, and the long-lasting trauma of those caught in the crossfire. Through a series of monologues and fragmented scenes, the play challenges simplistic notions of good and evil, forcing audiences to confront uncomfortable truths about human nature and the structures that breed terrorism. With unflinching honesty and occasional dark humor, Talking to Terrorists offers a powerful meditation on the possibility of breaking cycles of violence and finding common ground in our shared humanity.