Originally written ten years after 9/11 - In 2024, "Disgraced" is perhaps an even more relevant, visceral interrogation of the contradictions surrounding assimilation and cultural identity in the west. Through the character of Amir Kapoor, a conservative lawyer of color, Akhtar delves into the tragic unraveling of individuals who attempt to navigate the unsustainable collision of capitalistic, Eurocentric society and global-majority perspectives.

Central to “Disgraced” is an allegory about assimilation, wherein a man unravels from his inability to conform with the curel demands of capitalism. This conflict reflects an ugly American expectation for everyone to assimilate into an inhumane work culture, often at the expense of their own identity. Amir's trafic journey serves as a universal reminder for all people to remain socially and self-aware. His tragic decline emphasizes the sacrifices inherent for a pursuit of acceptance and success in an unjust society. This play could not be more politically relevant today as international tragedies are asking us all to build cross- culutral coalitions, and stand in solidarity against violence, beyond our underlying, tribal allegiances.