South Coast Repertory Debuts Blind Runner Play
The Mehr Theatre Group production runs on the Julianne Argyros Stage through November 8.
Updated on Oct. 20, 2026 in Running
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South Coast Repertory has premiered the play Blind Runner, marking the West Coast debut of the Mehr Theatre Group production. The show features performers Mohammad Aghebati and Ainaz Azarhoush and is presented in Persian with English supertitles.
Why it matters
The play brings the unique international work of writer and director Amir Reza Koohestani to Costa Mesa. It serves as only the second engagement for the production within the United States.
The production centers on a 38-kilometer run that spans from France to the UK. It is the second time the play has been performed in the United States.
The players
Amir Reza Koohestani
He is the writer and director of the play Blind Runner.
South Coast Repertory
This is a theater company based in Costa Mesa that hosts the production.
Mohammad Aghebati
He is a performer featured in the play.
Ainaz Azarhoush
She is a performer featured in the play.
Mehr Theatre Group
This is the theater project collective responsible for producing Blind Runner.
The details
Written and directed by Amir Reza Koohestani, the play features a narrative centered on a cross-border run. It is presented in partnership with the Farhang Foundation and the University of California, Irvine's Claire Trevor School of the Arts.
Timeline
The production runs through November 8, 2026.
The play previously had a United States engagement in January 2025.
Season Trajectory
This production fits into a wider season trend of regional theaters partnering with international cultural institutions to bring non-English language works to local stages. The collaboration with university drama departments highlights a move to integrate academic performance programs with professional theater rosters.
The production will occupy the Julianne Argyros Stage for performances through November 8. Audience members should be prepared for the play to be performed in Persian with English supertitles displayed throughout the show.
The takeaway
This production offers an opportunity to view international theater through the lens of a cross-border 38-kilometer narrative. Attendees can experience the work of the Mehr Theatre Group locally in Costa Mesa through the end of the current run.
Further reading
Learn more about local performances on our Running section page.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Broadway World.
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