South Coast Repertory Debuts Play Blind Runner
Mehr Theatre Group brings its acclaimed production to the Julianne Argyros Stage for a limited engagement.
Updated on Oct. 28, 2026 in Running
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South Coast Repertory has officially opened its West Coast debut of Blind Runner, a production from the Mehr Theatre Group. The play features performances by Mohammad Aghebati and Ainaz Azarhoush on the Julianne Argyros Stage.
Why it matters
The play provides local audiences the opportunity to experience international theater, presented in Persian with English supertitles. This production arrives in Costa Mesa following an engagement at St. Ann's Warehouse in early 2025.
The production centers on a 38-kilometer journey through the Channel Tunnel. It is presented in association with the University of California, Irvine's Claire Trevor School of the Arts Department of Drama.
The players
Amir Reza Koohestani
He is the writer and director of the play Blind Runner.
Mohammad Aghebati
He is a performer featured in the Mehr Theatre Group production.
Ainaz Azarhoush
She is a performer featured in the Mehr Theatre Group production.
South Coast Repertory
This is a professional theater company based in Costa Mesa that hosts this production.
Farhang Foundation
This organization acts as the cultural partner for the production of Blind Runner.
The details
Written and directed by Amir Reza Koohestani, the play is performed in Persian with English supertitles to accommodate a broader audience. The Farhang Foundation serves as the cultural partner for this limited theatrical run.
Timeline
January 2025: The production appeared at St. Ann's Warehouse.
October 28, 2026: The play held its opening night at South Coast Repertory.
November 8, 2026: The final scheduled performance takes place.
Season Trajectory
The production follows the precedent set by the 2025 Blind Runner engagement at St. Ann's Warehouse. This debut signals the play's movement into West Coast markets after its successful East Coast tenure.
Attendees can catch the show on the Julianne Argyros Stage through the closing date in November. The play is performed in Persian, and English supertitles are provided for all ticket holders.
The takeaway
This production represents a significant collaboration between international theater groups and local academic departments in Southern California. Theatergoers interested in global perspectives are encouraged to secure tickets before the show's final performance in November.
What happens next
The play is scheduled to continue performances through November 8, 2026.
Further reading
For more arts and community event updates, visit Running.
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