A new show, Besharam [Shame-LESS] is set to premiere at Kala Sangam, Bradford’s Arts Centre premiers today. Challenging societal norms, celebrating diversity and embracing individuality, Besharam [Shame-LESS] runs till 10 June as part of LGBTQIA+ Pride Month celebrations.
This thought-provoking performance invites viewers to question conventions, break free from shame, and choose authenticity. Through a perfect blend of engaging storytelling, and powerful performance, Besharam [Shame-LESS] aims to inspire and empower audiences to embrace their true selves.
Image: Dhamaka Arts
The story revolves around Captain Sid Akbar, an explorer who embarks on a mission to seek an open, queer life, defying societal expectations and norms. Drawing from personal experiences growing up in Bradford, Sid navigates the challenges of cultural identity and dreams of a future that seems impossible.
Alex Corwin, Programme and Marketing Manager said: “As Pride month gets underway, we are really excited to be premiering new work by Bradford’s own Sid Akbar, sharing his journey to an open, queer life. It is a bold and powerful show that will ignite conversations and inspire audiences to embrace their own true selves.”
Writer and star of Besharam [Shame-LESS] Sid Akbar said: “Growing up in Bradford I felt like there wasn’t a space for someone like me. I felt shamed and rejected as a queer person in my own, traditional Muslim community. But when I came out and tried to find my way in queer spaces, I still didn’t feel like I belonged. I wanted to share my story and take up a space for people like me, in the city I used to call home.”
While homosexuality and queer are widely accepted across the United Kingdom, it is still taboo in clusters of South Asian minorities who are largely conservative and closely knitted to religious cultures.
Homosexuality is criminalised in Pakistan, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka. In India, even though being queer is not an offence, LGBTQ marriages are still invalid under the current laws. The Indian Supreme Court is currently hearing pleas to legalise same-sex marriages, a contention opposed by the Indian Government
Please note that Besharam [Shame-LESS] contains strong language and sensitive themes that may not be suitable for some audiences.
All performances are ‘Pay What You Decide’, meaning you can book your tickets in advance but do not have to pay anything until after you have seen the show. There is no set amount to pay, you decide based on how much you have enjoyed the performance and what you can afford.
The performance on Thursday 8 June includes a post show Q&A with Sid Akbar.
Tickets can be booked online at Kala Sangam
