Cultural confusion and a convincing spin on romantic comedy, crops up in Shades, the marvellously sassy start to the Royal Court’s Young Writers’ Festival. The talented Alia Bano, who will surely win a prize or two for this, takes as her intriguing subject the Muslim dating scene in contemporary London. Party girl Sabrina (delightful Stephanie Street), a Bridget Jones in tighter jeans and better boots, is forced to examine the repercussions of her faith when she meets what initially seems a very wrong Mr Right.
Her gay best friend Zain (Navin Chowdhry) also struggles with issues of tolerance in his community.
It’s sexily directed in a traverse staging by Nina Raine and the young cast bound about with bundles of Tigger-ish energy, which helps to cover up the snappy script’s occasional moments of gaucheness. A memorable debut.
Shades until 21 February (020 7565 5000, www.royalcourttheatre.com).
Shades
Jerwood Theatre At The Royal Court
Sloane Square, SW1W 8AS
