Details

This summer we reopen with Out West - the world premiere of three new short plays written by three of the UK's leading playwrights, The Overseas Student by Tanika Gupta (A Doll's House), Blue water and cold and fresh by Simon Stephens (The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night Time) and Go, Girl by Roy Williams (Death Of England: Delroy). All rooted in West London, the plays explore race, identity and our sense of place and purpose. Presented together as a triple bill of three one person plays performed to a socially distanced audience. The Overseas Student - London. 1888. An 18-year old Gandhi has just arrived from India to study Law. Miles from home, his wife and his family, we see him navigate a time of uncertainty, growth and opportunity. As he builds a new life, he explores the joys of money, food and women whilst facing the struggles of class and imperialism. Gupta's sharp and profound play is an insight into the teenage years of a man we know will grow up to be one of the most significant figures in history. Blue Water and Cold and Fresh - London. 2020. A walk back in time. A walk that may change everything he's ever believed. In the wake of city lockdown living and the Black Lives Matter protests, one man's journey across London raises difficult truths he has to confront. The death of a loved one. His father's racism. His own white privilege. This heartfelt piece explores what it means to be a father, husband and son. Go Girl - London. 2020. Working as a security guard at Westfield and a mother to a teenage daughter, Donna sees her life as unremarkable. Why have things not turned out how she pictured when she was a young girl, inspired by the words of Michelle Obama? The hope and excitement she once felt has now become isolation and judgement of the choices she has made. Until one night Donna gets a call from her daughter that makes her rethink her entire life. As their bravery and humanity is tested, Donna realises just how remarkable they both truly are. A celebration of Black women, everyday heroism and female resilience.

Cast/Performers

Esh Alladi (young Gandi - The Overseas Student), Tom Mothersdale (Jack - Blue Water and Cold and Fresh), Ayesha Antoine (Go Girl)

Creatives/Company

Director(s): Rachel O'Riordan, Diane Page
Design: Soutra Gilmour
Costume: Soutra Gilmour
Lighting: Jessica Hung Han Yun
Sound: Simon Slater
Author(s): Tanika Gupta (The Overseas Student), Simon Stephens (Blue Water and Cold and Fresh), Roy Williams (Go Girl)