World Premiere of "Zabel in Exile" at Boston Playwrights' Theatre

The new memory play about Armenian activist and writer Zabel Yessayan is running through March 8.

Published on Feb. 26, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Boston University's Boston Playwrights' Theatre is presenting the world premiere of "Zabel in Exile", a new play by R.N. Sandberg. Set in 1937, the play depicts the final days of the life of Armenian activist and writer Zabel Yessayan, who is imprisoned in Soviet Armenia and facing a death sentence. The play explores Yessayan's reflections on her life, from childhood illnesses to the Armenian genocide.

Why it matters

The play sheds light on the life and legacy of Zabel Yessayan, an important Armenian writer and activist who was a witness to the Armenian genocide. Her story represents the struggles and perseverance of the Armenian people during a tumultuous period in history.

The details

"Zabel in Exile" is a memory play that follows Yessayan as she reflects on key moments from her life while imprisoned and facing execution in Soviet Armenia in 1937. The play features three actors portraying Yessayan and the other important figures in her life, including her childhood friend Arsha and her mentor Digeen Dussap.

  • The world premiere of "Zabel in Exile" is running at Boston Playwrights' Theatre through March 8, 2026.
  • The play is set in 1937, near the end of Zabel Yessayan's life.

The players

R.N. Sandberg

The playwright who authored "Zabel in Exile".

Zabel Yessayan

An Armenian activist and writer who is the central figure of the play, reflecting on her life while imprisoned in Soviet Armenia in 1937.

Boston Playwrights' Theatre

The theatre company producing the world premiere of "Zabel in Exile".

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

The takeaway

"Zabel in Exile" provides a powerful and poignant look at the life of an influential Armenian writer and activist, offering audiences a deeper understanding of Armenian history and the ongoing impact of the genocide.