Phizzical Productions, a leading South Asian arts company, has unveiled the impressive cast and creative team for the UK tour of the Olivier Award-nominated play, "10 Nights." Featuring Azan Ahmed in the lead role of Yasser, this emotionally resonant and humorous production chronicles one man's spiritual journey of self-discovery and faith.
The impactful play seeks to emphasise the need for open conversations not only about men's mental health but also about the detrimental stereotypes often imposed on Muslim men. The tour is scheduled to run at various locations from February 7 to March 2.
Speaking to Asian Voice, Azan Ahmed talks about the play, preparation and the mental health struggles of men in the Muslim community.
Which aspects of your character and the play struck a chord with you, influencing your decision to assume the role and be a part of the play?
The first thing that attracted me to this role and this play was the script. The script treats Muslim men with care and heart, and that was something new for me. Additionally, the challenge of doing a one-man show was both exciting and scary for me as it's not easy to keep people interested for a long time. I play the character Yasser, and I feel a connection with him. We're both Brown and Muslim men in Britain. Yasser feels like he doesn't belong, and that's something I've felt too. The play explores his struggles and how he deals with loss. He struggles with asking for help, and that's something many of us go through. Sometimes, we're too proud to admit we need help. Yasser also questions if he's a good Muslim, which is something I've done too. The play beautifully explores these questions. It's a Muslim story, but you don't have to be Muslim to enjoy it. Many individuals carry burdens like anger and fear of judgment, and this play unravels those emotions on stage. The first step is getting people to the theatre, regardless of their background.
What is the USP of the play and what do you hope that the audience take away from it?
I truly believe this script is unique because it shows British Muslim men on stage. Even though they are all played by one character, it feels genuine and truthful. What makes this play special is that it's not just serious—it's also really funny and witty. The play explores themes of faith, fractures, and failures, and there's a lot that people can relate to. This play addresses issues, especially related to mental health in the diaspora. One of the strengths is that the characters openly confront these issues, breaking the silence within our community.
As for my hopes for what the audience takes away from the play, I have two. First, I hope they leave feeling hopeful for positive changes in their own lives and the lives of the characters. Second, I really hope people have a good time and a good laugh. We all carry heavy hearts with everything happening in the world, like the troubles in Palestine, Sudan, and Congo. Everyone deserves a break, and this play brings that joy and laughter.
Could you elaborate on your preparation process for the role?
The key is to make everything in the play look and feel natural, so that when people watch it, they feel like the characters are real human beings. When preparing for this role, especially with themes like mental health, I did a lot of research. There are specific mental health conditions discussed in the play and I looked into testimonies from people who've experienced those conditions. I read articles, watched YouTube videos, and talked to people in my life who've been through similar struggles. I wanted to understand not just the facts but also what it feels like to be in their shoes. There are many great resources on mental health available today, and I tapped into them.
Physically, preparing to play seven different men required changing my entire gym routine. With characters talking to each other on stage, our movement director, Hamza, played a crucial role in rehearsals. It's like being surgical and precise to make sure each character's movements, tension, and presence are clear to the audience, yet keeping them real and not like caricatures.
What message would you like to convey to men within the Muslim community grappling with mental health challenges and stereotypes?
The first thing I want to say is that you're not alone. Consider coming to see "Conflict and Community." The most important action I recommend is to talk. If you find it hard to talk to people, start by talking to Allah. If you can't talk to your family or friends, or if you feel like you don't have those people in your life, try reaching out to someone. Building that bridge, even if it's just a small step, is a win.
