The Bridge (source: The Bridge)
Nasi is an immigrant from Tehran, Iran, who moved to Slovakia at the age of 15. She shares impressions about her favourite place, Žilina, due to fond memories from Model United Nations conferences. She also expresses her love for traditional Slovak food, particularly bryndzové pirohy, and drinks like borovička and home-made spirits. Nasi talks about her favourite Slovak slang words, and her favourite Slovak personality, Veronika Valkovičová, her best friend and an academic famous for her feminist teachings without being overbearing.
The conversation shifts to Nasi's background, including her emigration from Iran to Slovakia due to her family's decision. She reflects on the cultural closeness between Middle Eastern and Slavic cultures, citing examples like throwing shoes to punish children and the similarity in traditional heavy foods best enjoyed with family gatherings. Nasi explains her family's socio-economic reasons for choosing Slovakia and discusses the thorough research her parents did before the move.
Next, Nasi talks about her academic background in Political Science and International Relations. She emphasizes the importance of education on both sides—minorities and Slovaks— for better integration and mutual understanding.
The discussion then moves to Nasi's pursuit of stand-up comedy, initially inspired by her brother, a seasoned comedian. She shares her journey of transitioning from being an audience member to a performer, highlighting the mentorship she received from prominent Slovak comedians like Jano Gordulič. Nasi elaborates on the distinctive flavor of Slovak stand-up comedy, comparing it to American and UK styles, and recounts her challenges and successes in performing in both Slovak and English. Nasi concludes by reflecting on her evolution as a comedian, from immigrant-themed jokes to exploring more personal themes, while always striving to connect with her audience.
Listen to the full interview, download your worksheet and check your understanding here:
https://thebridge.sk/en/the-bridge-on-air-nasi-from-iran-a-stand-up-comedian-from-silne-reci/
English is a piece of cake.
With The Bridge.
