Kiln Theatre is to premiere Suhaiymah Manzoor-Khan’s debut play, Peanut Butter & Blueberries, directed by Sameena Hussain. This poignant exploration of love amidst societal pressures features Usaamah Ibraheem Hussain and Humera Syed in the lead roles.
The play follows Hafsah and Bilal, two students from Bradford and Birmingham, as they navigate their unexpected connection in London. It delves into themes of faith, dreams, and the challenges of choosing love in the face of social realities.
Peanut Butter & Blueberries runs from 8 August to 31 August 2024 at Kiln Theatre. Tickets can be booked here.
You’re starring in Peanut Butter & Blueberries to Kiln Theatre, what can you tell us about the show?
It’s a play full of laughter and joy, a brown love story, with themes and messages that are universal and will be understood by any human.
How would you describe your character, Bilal?
A Pakistani lad from Birmingham in his mid-20s, trying to find where he fits in at SOAS and in London away from his working-class Birmingham routes.
What attracted you to this project and Suhaiymah Manzoor-Khan’s writing?
The story was very close to home for me, and the characters are very real people who are overdue their voice being shared on stage. Suhaiymah’s writing is poetic, witty and emotionally charged, I don’t know what more an actor could ask for!
How does the play explore the themes of love, faith, and social pressures?
It explores them from the perspective of two young Pakistani Muslims who have grown up in England.
Can you tell us about your experience working with director Sameena Hussain and co-star Humera Syed?
They are a joy to work with! Sameena is such a calm, playful director, which really creates a safe space in which us actors can play and explore and Humera is so open and giving! Both are such great creatives to be in a room with.
What would you say to anyone thinking of booking to see Peanut Butter & Blueberries?
Come with an open mind and heart! Many of you may not have been told this story from this perspective before and for those of you who know these characters, I hope it fills you with love and joy.
