Saturday 17 January 2015

East Is East, Trafalgar Studios, London


 (Image Credit: http://trafalgartransformed.com)


Excitement always reigns for many theatre lovers whenever Trafalgar Transformed/Jamie Lloyd Productions announce their seasons.  In this case Trafalgar Transformed  Season 2 featured Richard III starring Martin Freeman and Sam Yates's East is East starring Jane Horrocks.

East is East is a comedy where a story of two different cultures clash within a family.  Written by Ayub Khan Kin who stars as George Khan, a Pakistani fish and chip shop owner and strict Muslim, and Jane Horrocks who stars as his long suffering wife, Ella Khan. They both, separately more or less, raise a large family in the North West of England.  As well as this production  there is an award winning film, by Damien O'Donnell, which has been adapted the play.  Set in 1970s Salford and not so long after the Swinging 60s which challenged and changed the social landscape forever.

George Khan wishes for his children to have a traditional upbringing.  His hope for his children to be Muslims however is short lived as they see the world differently from him and oppose his rules.  East is East explores the tensions and differences of two cultures that are raised under one household.  It's certainly a battle on both George's and Ella's part which leads to hilarious and poignant consequences.  Compromising is certainly not an option for both of them which leads to those close and dear facing difficult choices and to come to terms what is expected and what is accepted, reluctantly in some cases!

East is East has now finished its run at the Trafalgar Studios but is currently on a limited UK Tour.  A recommended comedy offering one an insight in a Pakistani and English household.

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