Creators of Little Mosque on the Prairie spotlight how comedy can be used for social change

Journalism alum Zarqa Nawaz and Image Arts alum Michael Kennedy joined The Creative School for a powerful, witty and inspirational conversation about the power of film, television and comedy: all through the lens of award-winning sitcom Little Mosque on the Prairie. 

Little Mosque on the Prairie is the world’s first sitcom about a Muslim family living in the western world. The show was an immediate and massive success, and attracted 2.2 million viewers for its premiere. 

Nawaz, who created short films before Little Mosque on the Prairie, said she enjoys using humour in her films to present Muslim characters and storylines. When she submitted a short film to the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) and got accepted, she said, “it was the first time I realized, oh my god, I need a television comedy.”

From there, she filmed multiple shorts and docuseries, and eventually pitched the idea for the celebrated Little Mosque on the Prairie series, which was later picked-up by CBC. 

Transforming societal norms through comedy

In a post 9/11 world, Nawaz said the bigger aim of her show was to humanize Muslims and show the community in a different light than what was being depicted at the time. 

“I think the [9/11] controversy helped [fuel these negative depictions] enormously. There was this fear that no one could ever put Muslims on television and nobody had the guts to do it,” Nawaz explains. “No one had seen Muslims as just normal humans doing normal human things. We just created a funny and entertaining show and it happened to be about Muslims.” 

As director and someone outside of the Islamic community, Kennedy encountered controversial questions from the media such as, “what's so funny about people flying planes into our towers?” 

His response: “I have a feeling you haven't watched the show.” 

At the basis of ignorance is usually fear, a lack of interaction and knowledge about Muslims and Islam.

“There was a great deal of curiosity about Muslims and about this show, [so we took this opportunity to] attempt to take humour into the Muslim arena,” he said. “Our show revolves around humour and tolerance. Comedy has the ability to open your eyes and your hearts in a way that drama does not. It uses a non-threatening approach to introduce people to new norms and it can break down social barriers.” 

Advice for aspiring television and film creatives

As alumni of The Creative School, Nawaz and Kennedy both shared gems of advice for students looking to break into creative industries and make their mark in their fields.

“Be brave, be confident and don't be afraid to take on any issue that you’re inclined to tackle,” Kennedy said. “I also encourage students to find creative collaborators that share their vision and share their goals and things will start to click.” 

Coming from a writing background, Nawaz said she encourages students to become great at what they do and learn the multiple sides it takes to produce a finished product. 

“I can advise students to be true to your voice and master your craft. You've got to be really, really good at it because it is so competitive,” she said. “You also have to familiarize yourself with the organizational side as well as the creative side. Learn the business side of it even if you're a creative person. It's really important to do that and partner with people who can help you.” 

Watch the full conversation with Zarqa Nawaz, Michael Kennedy and The Creative School here (external link, opens in new window) . 

The Creative School at Ryerson University

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