Sikh play could move to London

The controversial play about rape and murder in a Sikh temple could be staged at a London theatre after rioting protestors forced its cancellation.

Birmigham Repertory Theatre dropped Behzi - Dishonour - on safety grounds after angry Sikh demonstrators clashed with police while laying seige to the building.

But now the Royal Court in Sloane Square has stepped forward to give the play a home

Spokesman Ramin Gray said: "Irrespective of the quality of this play I think we need to see it."

The Royal Court's move, which could provoke angry protests by London Sikhs, comes as the play's writer Gupreet Kaur Bhatti spoke for the first time about her fears for her safety.

The 35-year-old playwright, herself a Sikh, has gone into hiding after receiving death threats over the 'black comedy', which explores themes of power, abuse and exploitation. Police advised her to flee the north London flat she shares with her boyfriend, theatre director Michael Buffong.

Miss Bhatti said: " Threats have been made against me and I don't need to be in the news. You have to understand I'm dealing with issues of my safety at the moment.

"I will respond to the criticism of me in a few days, although my play is already in the public domain."

Workmen yesterday fitted steel security grilles on windows and doors at her home.