Ay Kash / اے کاش / If Only centres on the voices of eleven young women in Afghanistan, with Cosmino Theatre performer Rachel Karafistan anchoring the stage.

All material has been shared via Telegram under challenging conditions – unreliable electricity, limited internet, and the threat of Taliban surveillance. Despite this, the contributors courageously tell their stories.

They reflect on life since the Taliban’s return, share the experiences of past generations, and express their hopes for the future.

Blending song, object theatre, storytelling, and subtle AI, the performance brings these voices to life. Animations by Berlin-based artist Anna Benner – created from short films submitted by the participants – help protect their identities.

An accompanying global online event in July 2024 featured women worldwide reading the participants’ texts in nine languages.

The project is funded entirely through public donations, with every penny raised going directly to support the eleven young women in Afghanistan.

Production Photos

Trailer

Trailer