Tear a Root from the Earth

Tear a Root from the Earth is a new musical that uses both American and Afghan folk music to portray three generations of an Afghan family as they navigate the American and Soviet invasions of Afghanistan. The piece is epic in scope and specific to Afghanistan, but also universal in its themes about the impossible decisions facing people in war. It features an on-stage band composed of instruments from East and West. From Afghanistan, virtuoso and co-composer Qais Essar plays the traditional rabab alongside Afghan percussion. From the West, co-composer and lyricist Johnny Walsh lends folk, bluegrass, and rock rhythms to the captivating score. This combination of sounds and styles offers a unique perspective on Afghanistan and America’s legacy there.

Music by Johnny Walsh with Qais Essar and Gramophonic
Lyrics by Johnny Walsh
Book by John Bair
Directed by Marina McClure
Music direction by Jessica Batke

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Kennedy Center

Photo credits: Marina McClure

Ice Factory

Photo credits: Marina McClure