If there was ever a play created for the people of Birmingham, celebrating the spirit of togetherness, this production perfectly titled ‘Community’ written by Farrah Chaudhry is exactly it. Farrah Chaudhry, a graduate of Rep Foundry has clearly expressed her pride and love of being from Birmingham, in this well written and funny comedy drama.

As we were preparing to go in, we bumped into Andy Street, The former Mayor of Birmingham who expressed how much he was looking forward to the play. Taking place at The Door, at the Birmingham Rep, an intimate setting for up to 140 spectators, of which all the seats were full, made this feel like we were very much part of the story.
Although this space is dedicated to new artists, and the development of their work, one would be certainly caught off guard to expect anything less than the high standards that is endorsed by Birmingham Rep.

The set, transformed between scenes, with slight alterations and was cleverly constructed to easily adapt. The choice of music of Asian music does not shy away from the cultural background of these characters and resembles for many the way in which many Asians live, working hard and participating in being active members of the community.

The production consisting of just three member of the cast who are, Sabrina Nabi, Kerena Jagpal and Sayyid Aki, delivered their on-stage performance beautifully. The themes of identity, friendship and belonging are explored in a comical but realistic way. The play starts with the colourful Zoya and the stark contrast in her mannerisms and her attitudes to life in comparison to her friend Leyla.

The two ladies are complete opposite in characters, whilst Zoya lacks a sense of purpose and appears to be very well used to living the life of indulgence, Leyla is hardworking, humble and reliable.

Zoya’s sense of entitlement and privilege are humbled throughout the duration of this play by connecting with different people, from different backgrounds. This is initiated by meeting Khalil, playing the refugee, who despite his trauma, exudes a warmth and hope through his faith. This feeling and his smiles are infectious, leaving the audience questioning our purpose and how our purpose as people is more fulfilled helping and living in harmony with others. Zoya’s complete unwillingness to volunteer at the community centre is hilarious at the start. The usual excuses being something that we the audience have either heard or used ourselves.

This production whilst thought provoking, also ensures that the humour is weaved throughout the production.

“It’s just a love letter to Birmingham”, exclaimed Alice Chambers, the Director of ‘Community’.

At a time when it is reported that the people of this city are experiencing high levels of isolation and dissociation this play reignites the spirit of hope in a light-hearted way. If there was ever a time to remind the people of Birmingham, the importance of being connected and being part of a community, then this production is it.

The play, ‘Community’ is running until Saturday 8th February 2025 at the Rep and then will go on a two-week tour around the West Midlands. It is also a ‘part of Theatre Green Book trial’, which uses initiatives to control the amount of energy, recycling where possible and using less resources throughout the production process; proving further the commitment to the community on all levels.

If you need a good laugh and a reminder that you are not alone, go and feel part of Farrah Chaudhry’s heartwarming ‘Community’.