I was never a big sports fan growing up. I am the furthest thing from competitive and a lot of sports just never piqued my interest; that was until my husband introduced me to basketball. It started off with a few dates here and there and now I am putting games on even when he isn’t home. So, getting to attend an event combining basketball and theater, two of my favorite things, had me doing a fast break to Capital Stage. 

American Fast follows Khady Salama, a twenty-one-year-old basketball sensation whose determination has taken her team all the way to March Madness. This year, March Madness happens to fall on Ramadan, the Muslim month of fasting. Khady is put on a pedestal as a Muslim athlete and during a press conference it is revealed that she will be fasting (which she didn’t know). As the tournament progresses, Khady struggles with her relationships, religion, athletic career, and herself.  

I found myself impressed by the number of themes this play captures in a skillful and emotional way. Not only does the show examine the complexities of being a woman and how it relates to basketball, but it also deeply goes into the mother-daughter relationship and the complex relationship one can have with religion and how that does or doesn’t define you. The use of these themes throughout the play shows how skilled Kareem Fahmy, the writer, is. Each theme is unique and powerful, but each one works with the other to give the audience a passionate experience.  

My favorite parts in the show were the mother-daughter scenes. Suzan, Khady’s mother, is the perfect depiction of a caring mother. Sometimes her concern and love might be seen as overbearing but, ultimately, she just wants to have a good relationship with Khady. She reminds me so much of my own mom and so many other moms that I have met throughout the years. She has the universal “mom quality” that everyone can relate to while watching. 

If you are coming for the basketball, you will be leaving absolutely enthralled with the characters and storyline. Not only will you examine your own relationships, but you will also be reminded that honesty is the best policy in life. You can catch American Fast now through February 25 at Capital Stage. Learn more here.