Washed Ashore is about two men; Nigerian and Pakistani who are stranded on an Imaginary island whilst trying to get to the UK. The play explores the challenges refugees undertake on their route to the UK. The piece explores the politics of borders, migration, and human togetherness in this piece. We build on this by making the story personal and intimate. Theatrically we have a texture of dreamlike quality which engages the audience even more. We are exploring this story through the specific lens of both their respective cultures, language and sensibilities. We are unpacking the effects of British colonialism and how that manifests in moments of crisis for them both.
As artists of global heritage, we wanted to create work that intersected with the current political climate in the UK. With the continued growth of refugee issues, we were drawn to this topic and wanted to do it justice by focusing on the wholeness and individuality that is often disregarded in people who migrate across the world. With our Pakistani and Nigerian heritage, we were able to one of a kind piece of theatre, that blended different languages, cultural norms and aspirations, alongside the hope for survival.
It is unique, personal, and carries a drive that we hope reflects how we should all see one another in the world.
"It is precisely these types of projects, involving these types of people, in these types of theatres that make London what it is."
The Lancet
