Sid Sagar stars in a major revival of Pulitzer Prize winning playwright Ayad Akhtar’s The Invisible Hand, part of Kiln Theatre’s reopening season.
Following a sold out run in 2016, Kiln Theatre Artistic Director Indhu Rubasingham directs the first major revival of Ayad Akhtar’s tense and thrilling play.
The Invisible Hand starring Sid Sagar is at Kiln Theatre 1st – 31st July 2021. Tickets are on sale here.
You’re appearing in Ayad Akhtar’s The Invisible Hand at Kiln Theatre, what can you tell us about the play?
An American banker is taken hostage in Pakistan and has to play the markets in order to buy his freedom. It’s a political thriller set in a cell. The play premiered in the UK at the Tricycle in 2016 (and was nominated for an Olivier!) so it’s great to return to the show five years later at the Kiln.
Why do you think this story is so relevant to the world we’re living in today?
It’s a remarkable play – broad and global in its resonance and outlook, yet intensely personal and intimate. There’s something about Nick Bright’s plight (the American banker confined to a cell) which weirdly echoes those darker moments of lockdown during the pandemic. Meanwhile, the beating heart of the play is covered in themes such as finance, race and power – which have equally meaningful and provocative connotations in 2021.
You play Dar, how would you describe the character?
Dar is an initially quite a simple, submissive young man from rural Pakistan. When doing what he needs to do to survive, his character journey gets more complicated and darker throughout the play.
What was it about Ayad Akhtar’s writing that made you want to be a part of this production?
Ayad is one of the most intelligent people I’ve ever worked with. His writing has the capacity to transform deeply complex material into an accessible plot that demands empathy. It’s a privilege to work with his words.
You’re returning to the Kiln following a run in White Teeth, what are you looking forward to most about being back?
We’ve all missed shared moments of togetherness and connection. It’s a joy to be part of the Kiln’s return. It’s a building that effortlessly celebrates differences and inclusivity, from its outstanding community engagement work in Brent, to the variety of voices it amplifies on its stage.
What would you say to anyone thinking of coming to see The Invisible Hand?
Book your tickets! The auditorium will be socially distanced throughout the run (from 1-31 July) so seats are limited. Come for a real theatrical thriller; leave feeling more connected to others.
