The Shakespeare Theatre Company is presenting a unique event from the Tricycle Theatre through Sept. 26. “The Great Game: Afghanistan” is a constellation of plays grouped into three parts. The plays — written by 14 playwrights — deal with the history and culture of Afghanistan beginning in 1842 and ending in the present.

The first group of plays, “Part One: 1842-1930, Invasions & Independence,” consists of seven works of different intention and character. Although the quality of the plays varies slightly, the acting and direction, by Nicolas Kent and Indhu Rubasingham, is superb throughout.