At the New Diorama Theatre in London, we had the chance to witness Sonali Bhattacharyya’s gripping new play, which takes the audience on a heart-pounding journey through the trials of immigration. The drama begins with a shocking surprise: the pre-show music cuts off suddenly, a flash of lightning plunges everything into darkness, and from that moment, the tension never wavers.
Set on an unnamed island that mirrors our own reality, the narrative follows two sisters, Nikita and Riya, as they navigate a rigid immigration process. While their specific background remains undisclosed, it’s clear that they belong to a migrant heritage, a fact underscored by Kali Theatre, the co-producer that focuses on works by South Asian women. The sisters, portrayed with a keen sense of familial dynamics, are brought to life by Zainab Hasan as Nikita, whose fervent performance resonates deeply, and Safiyya Ingar as Riya, who fluctuates between determination and uncertainty about her resident status.
As they reach a critical juncture, they turn to Ayesha Dharker’s sinister auntie, who presents a mix of false comforts and dubious magical solutions, all laced with endearments like “my beautiful little orphans.” In a moment of desperation, Riya conjures a spell that brings forth a magical fawn. Dominic Holmes captivates as this character, who transforms from a timid creature into a formidable presence that symbolizes the complexities of human nature.
The fawn’s unsettling devotion to Riya, poignantly declaring, “I can run and fight for you,” quickly unveils the dual nature of supernatural affection—a theme reminiscent of ancient golem tales.
Under the direction of Milli Bhatia, along with a skilled design team, the small stage comes alive. Rajha Shakiry’s set design blends elements like chicken wire and chintz, representing the quest for comfort within a stark, concrete environment. The lighting, crafted by Elliot Griggs, shifts dramatically to create a landscape filled with rust and deep shadows, while Xana’s sound design reverberates with a chilling intensity.
In her previous work, “Chasing Hares,” Bhattacharyya masterfully intertwined fable with stark realism. In this latest piece, the portrayal of a hostile environment and the oppressive burden of bureaucracy feels hauntingly familiar. However, as Bhattacharyya’s imagination flourishes, the play provides a striking commentary on cruelty that draws parallels between folklore and today’s political climate. The fawn emerges as a symbol of our collective fears and the small injustices we face, while the island’s rigid politics echo the relentless nature of folklore trolls: “Never ask them why.”
With its high-stakes drama and electric performances, this production at New Diorama offers a thrilling experience, running until November 2nd.
