SAFAR is a research and development project spearheaded by Ahmad Sakhi with BÉZNĂ Theatre’s support. Ahmad researched, develop & devised a first draft of an autobiographical play about his family’s journey from Afghanistan to the UK. BÉZNĂ will provide dramaturgical, administrative and producing support, as well as support Ahmad to take the project forward.

A one-week R&D in March 2021 with 5 actors and director Nico Vaccari will culminate in a digital showing.

CREATIVE TEAM

Playwright Ahmad Sakhi

Dramaturg Sînziana Cojocărescu

Co-producers Claire Gilbert and Sammy Willbourne

Director Nico Vaccari

Cast Elham Ehsas, Mona Khalili, Lara Sawalha, Waj Ali and Shala Nyx

I was born in Afghanistan but my family were forced to leave in 2000 when I was 7 years old because my father & brother were kidnapped by the Taliban. I was finally reunited with them in 2002 & reached the UK after 11 months of travelling. I grew up in Radcliffe, on the outskirts of Manchester. I developed a passion for theatre during secondary school but was unable to pursue it as my parents disproved. After studying biomedical science at Manchester Metropolitan University & beginning work I finally plucked the courage to pursue acting. In 2019 I was cast in the play ILLEGALISED by BEZNA Theatre to play an Afghan refugee. It was my first role in theatre. The play was based on interviews with people seeking asylum which inspired me to reflect on my family’s experience of forced migration. I gained experience working with first-hand testimony, collaborating with the intervieweees who gave notes in rehearsals & commented on authenticity. In 2019- 2020, BEZNA invited me to work with them on live-translation of interviews they were conducting for a different project. Working with them has encouraged me to pursue my own project.