Set against the backdrop of a community centre in Balsall Heath, Birmingham; Community succeeds in representing and engaging with the local community, offering a compelling exploration of both personal and collective growth.
The story centres around Zoya (Sabrina Nabi), a pampered and privileged young woman from Edgbaston, who finds herself cut off financially by her wealthy parents after a falling out. With nowhere else to turn, she seeks refuge with her old college friend Leyla (Kerena Jagpal). Unlike Zoya, Leyla is hardworking, dependable and deeply embedded in her local community. She shares a flat with Khalil (Sayyid Aki), a Syrian refugee, whose experiences and perspective further enrich the narrative. The trio — each Muslim but with varying degrees of religious observance — forge a complex dynamic, where their shared faith both unites and divides them throughout the play.
The premise of Community echoes that of popular TV show 2 Broke Girls but with a fresh, cultural twist. Zoya, initially a disruptor in Leyla’s carefully balanced life, brings her tech-savviness and creative writing background to the community centre, helping a local resident access benefits and Khalil with his poetry. However, when Zoya suggests a talent contest with an all-expenses paid holiday as the grand prize, it sends Leyla into a tailspin. The ensuing tension between the characters highlights the stark contrast between Zoya’s privileged background and Leyla’s grounded, no-nonsense approach to life. Lessons are learned and their friendship is ultimately repaired, as Leyla assures Zoya, “Are you spoiled? Yes. Are you worthy of another chance? Again, yes.”
One of Community’s most successful elements is its ability to immerse the audience in the community it portrays. By subtly involving the spectators in the action, for example, performing for us at the talent show and engaging us in exercise sessions, the production solidifies the message that true community is built not just by those on stage, but by everyone who occupies the space. This is testament to Farrah Chaudhry’s excellent script, which is both authentic and unique to the Birmingham community. While this involvement is engaging, the potential for a deeper, evolving connection with the audience could have been explored even further, perhaps by integrating more interactive elements as the story progresses.
The cast delivers strong performances, with each actor bringing depth and authenticity to their respective roles. Zoya’s transformation from a self-absorbed young woman to someone who begins to understand her role within a wider community is both believable and touching. While the direction is mostly strong from Alice Chambers, there are moments when the pacing falters and some scenes feel underdeveloped, particularly at the beginning of the production. Additionally, occasional diction issues detract from the otherwise sharp dialogue. However, the monologues, which are rich in emotional complexity, provide some of the most powerful moments of the show, resonating deeply with the audience. A stand out moment being when Khalil reads his poetry at the talent show, which was deeply moving.
At its heart, Community is a poignant reflection of friendship, family and the bonds that shape our understanding of ourselves and others. The production offers a thoughtful exploration of race, privilege and the intersectionality of those experiences, making it not just an entertaining evening but one that sparks introspection. Whether it’s examining the intricacies of cultural identity or the universal desire to belong; Community captures these themes with both humour and heart.
Catch Community at The Rep until Saturday 8th February Community | Birmingham Rep
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