Blending theatre, testimony and projection, Suppliants of Syria brings real accounts of displacement to the stage in a contemporary retelling.
The production features Tobi King Bakare performing alongside Albie Marber and Vlad Gurdis, weaving their lived perspectives with powerful stories from Syrian women.
Suppliants of Syria runs from 3–8 March 2026 at Hoxton Hall. Tickets are available here.
You’re starring in Suppliants of Syria at Hoxton Hall. What can you tell us about the show?
Suppliants of Syria is an adaptation of the Greek play The Suppliants. It was written in 463 BC and is generally about the aftermath of war, with a strong focus on migration. We’re bringing this ancient story into a modern context, and unfortunately the themes are still very relevant.
In our production, Albie Marber, Vlad Gurdis, and I play Greek gods, while 30 Syrian women form the Chorus.
Suppliants of Syria uses multimedia, live performance and recorded testimonies. How have you found working within that creative blend?
Generally, I love finding new ways to tell stories. This time round it’s felt especially important because we’re working with people who are directly affected by the themes we’re exploring.
Having them involved not just in our storytelling, but in being able to hear their stories in their own voices, makes this show truly special. It adds a layer of urgency that goes beyond Hoxton Hall and Border Crossings.
The production incorporates first‑hand accounts from Syrian women. How did connecting with these testimonies influence your approach to the role?
One of the things I’ve really appreciated about this process is how much our real dialogue has shaped the play. We’ve had very honest responses to these testimonies, which the audience will hear on stage.
When making work like this, there’s a thin line to get it right. We’re very conscious of that and are actively ensuring that the women’s voices and needs remain the priority throughout the production.
The show reimagines Aeschylus’ Suppliants and explores asylum, power and displacement. What themes have resonated with you personally?
For much of my childhood, I lived in several different countries, and at one point I experienced displacement myself.
Connecting with my fellow cast members who have gone through similar experiences has been really rewarding.
You’re performing as yourself alongside Albie Marber and Vlad Gurdis. How does that shape the dynamic on stage?
Oh, it’s good fun. Albie and Vlad bring so much to their roles, and the work we’re creating together is really exciting.
Performing as yourself can be very exposing, but the nature of this show requires it. Being put on the line like this has really jump‑started our camaraderie, and the dynamic on stage feels raw and alive.
What would you say to anyone thinking of booking to see Suppliants of Syria?
Don’t miss your chance to see one of the most experimental and thought‑provoking shows I’ve come across!
Every night is – no joke – going to be dramatically different to the other. Come and get involved!
