‘Statues’ is ultimately a father-son story. How a son gets to know his father through a tape, whilst struggling to deal with his work as a high school teacher. Set in the mid-90s, this looks into themes such as loss, grief, communication, family and music.
What’s beautiful about this story is that it speaks to everyone. Even though the play focuses on two British Pakistanis, everyone can relate to the themes. The story focuses on Yusuf who is about to start a new job as the Head of English, teaching Year 13s after discovering a truth about his father after his death.
The characters are realistic and the relationship between Yusuf and his father is something that Yusuf wanted more of. The realisation that Yusuf father was a rapper who talked of things that mattered to him makes Yusuf feel like he never really knew his father at all.
The play is a thoughtful and beautiful play, using language to push against our prejudices and open up our understanding. Urdu words are freely used and rarely defined.
Statues is currently playing at Bush Theatre until 9th November. Get your tickets here: https://www.bushtheatre.co.uk/event/statues/
WRITTEN BY:
Nura Arooj
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