Groundbreaking comedy drama set to open at Birmingham Rep
The Rep has announced that new play Liberation Squares, a riotous, funny story told through the technicolour lens of three British Muslim schoolgirls, is stopping off in Birmingham as part of its national tour.
Written by Sonali Bhattacharyya, in association with Brixton House, this contemporary drama is inspired by graphic novels, hip hop, pop culture and real-world youth activists!
Running from Thursday 16 to Saturday 18 May, Liberation Squares asks what it takes for young Muslim women today to be the heroes of their own stories.
In a city where 33 per cent of the 300,000 plus Muslim population is aged 16 and under, it’s a production that connects with a significant Birmingham community.
Playing the dynamic Ruqaya is Vaneeka Dadhria, best friend Sabi is played by Asha Hassan and their social media influencer friend Xara is played by Halema Hussain (pictured).
The three girls forge an unlikely friendship. They challenge each other with Tik Toks, beat-boxing, rap and dance routines. But they undergo a political awakening when they realise that what you say – even what you think – is viewed very differently depending on who you are.
When they find themselves the target of the state surveillance ‘Prevent’ programme, they have to fight back. Friendships fracture and loyalties are tested as they pursue different avenues of resistance.
The play, directed by the acclaimed Milli Bhatia, is a Nottingham Playhouse and Fifth Word co-production.
Sonali Bhattacharyya said: "I wanted to write a play about the incredible imagination, inquisitiveness and creativity teenagers have - this is what forges the messy bond between Xara, Ruqaya, and Sabi
“Right now, we're witnessing rapidly normalised Islamophobia and racism, including in government policies like the Prevent surveillance programme, and I wanted to explore how this inhibits young people's confidence, freedom of expression, and even their futures.
“I wanted to tell this story through the points of view of young people themselves, with all of the joyful spirit of rebellion that entails!"
Artistic Director at Fifth Word, Laura Ford, said: “During the development process, we’ve had the opportunity to work with a group of young Muslim women whose contributions have been vital in shaping the further development of the script. The play puts young female agency centre stage and will make for a thoroughly entertaining yet thought-provoking piece of theatre.”
Click here to book tickets or call 0121 236 4455.
