Play Details
Context
Artistic Director
David Byrne
Dates Performed
Wednesday 1st May 2024
Jerwood Theatre Upstairs
Play Details
Synopsis
A mosque, the present
Hani, Munira, Yasmin, and Salma—are tight-lipped about why they are there. When a power outage plunges them into darkness, they break the ice by sharing subverted folktales. Through these stories, they discover unexpected parallels in their lives that may lead to friendship. The play is a comedic exploration of Somali, Muslim culture and female friendship, drawing inspiration from the 1985 movie “The Breakfast Club”. As they navigate their personal struggles and the strict environment of their mosque, the girls bond over shared experiences and cultural heritage.
The play explores themes of cultural identity, friendship, youth rebellion, and self-discovery. The narrative employs a linear structure with a blend of realistic and humorous dialogue, reflecting the contemporary experiences of young Somali women. The tone is a mix of comedy and drama, capturing the nuanced dynamics of the girls’ relationships and their interactions with authority figures. The play’s style is engaging and relatable, emphasising the importance of storytelling and cultural heritage in shaping identity and community bonds.
Cast & Creative
Cast
Susu Ahmed
Cast
Sabrina Ali (she/her)
Cast
Faduma Issa (she/her)
Cast
Hadsan Mohamud (she/her)
Design Consultant
Khadija Raza
Lighting
Joshua Gadsby
Sound Designer
Calum Perrin
Assistant Director
Ilhan Adam
Stage Manager on book
Shakira Taylor-Knight
Movement Consultant
DK Fashola
Voice and Dialect Coach
Gurkiran Kaur
Creative Producer