Reviewed at Leeds Playhouse by Michelle Rawlins
One of the most harrowing elements of this thoughtful piece of theatre is the fact that nearly twenty years on since Khaled Hosseini wrote his highly acclaimed novel, history is once again repeating itself in Afghanistan.
This powerful adaptation under the direction of Roxana Silbert tells the story of how women’s rights have been stripped bare over generations. Under extreme oppression, they’re left voiceless as they are subjected to systematic abuse and torture.
The play opens with Laila (Kerena Jagpal) and her loving parents preparing to flee war torn Kabul, in search of a better life. But their plans are destroyed after an explosion leaves the little girl an orphan.
She is taken in by the abusive Rasheed (Jonas Khan), a neighbour, who is more than happy to manipulate the situation so he can marry Laila, and make her his second wife.
What follows is a story of friendship, love and eventual loyalty, emotions that for many years keep Laila, and Rasheed’s beaten first wife, Mariam, in one piece. Bound together by the cruellest of circumstances they protect themselves against the atrocities and brutality of the sadistic man they were both forced to marry.
The critically acclaimed book was always going to be a tough act to follow, but this is a phenomenally strong cast. Rina Fatania’s performance as Mariam is breathtaking. From her unfaltering presence, which commands attention, to the emotional depth she displays as a protective mother figure.
Humera Syed slips seamlessly between Laila’s lively, energetic, daughter, Aziza, to the desperately unhappy young Mariam, while Kerena Jagpal perfectly encapsulates the sheer resilience and strength of Laila.
Unlike Hosseini’s book, which was published in 2002, the play which was produced in collaboration with Leeds Playhouse, Birmingham Rep and Nottingham Playhouse, isn’t told in a linear fashion. Instead, it gradually reveals Mariam’s poignant and heartbreaking back story, interspersed with Laila’s past and the affection she and her childhood friend, Tariq, shared.
Writer, Ursula Rani Sarma, perfectly encapsulates the thoughtful and emotional depth the best-selling novel is known for. She thoughtfully explores the complex and intersectional relationships between Mariam, Laila and Tariq, alongside the desperate actions which stem from a need to simply survive.
But alongside the tragedy, Sarma also interjects comedic elements, showing that wherever there is anguish, light can be found. Laila’s daughter, Aziza, is spirited and full of fun, with the advantage of youth and hope on her side, replicating the flashbacks of her once happy-go-lucky mum, before the Taliban ensured women were only useful as subservient slaves to any man.
Those joyous moments are not only needed but replicate the true to life coping mechanisms which are born out of love and determination to survive.
Simon Kenny’s ever-changing set is simple yet evocative, illustrating the poverty of the home Mariam and Laila have become virtual prisoners to the fearful streets of Kabul, that are ruled by violent gun-laden soldiers, to the tranquil serenity of the countryside, offering hope and safety.
The clever changes in lighting by Matt Haskins, supported by traditional Afghan music, adds atmosphere, creating soft glows of warmth where needed, or contrasting sharp flashes indicating a missile attack.
You can’t escape this is a harrowing piece of theatre, which includes domestic abuse, death and sheer brutality, but it’s a story that must be told to ensure the voices of Afghan women, and those displaced through war, are not forgotten by the rest of the world.
A Thousand Splendid Suns is showing Leeds Playhouse until Saturday June 14
Tickets here
Pictures by Ellie Kurttz