Sarai has been promised a son, and that she will become the mother of a new nation. What now? Embarking on an epic journey away from her homeland, she must contend with famine, disease, civil war… and the prophecy. Her courage and strength will be tested to their limits.
Sarai is a strikingly modern, multi-sensory theatrical experience with powerfully uplifting live music. It breathes new life into an ancient mystery and unravels the stories we live with.
Karlina Grace-Paṣeda, who has appeared in Death and the King’s Horseman and Welcome to Thebes at the National Theatre, plays the title role in this world premiere production from Fringe First award-winner Paul Anthony Morris.
Byron Wallen, winner of the BBC’s Innovation in Jazz award, composer for The Amen Corner (NT) and sound designer for The Immortals and Game of Thrones, performs his original score live on stage with a world-class band of musicians.
“One cannot fault Grace-Paseda’s heartfelt performance … a timeless and universal medley of feelings, urges and hopes … a perfect marriage of disciplines” – The Upcoming
“A mix of haunting melodies and mesmerising crescendos … by turns joyful and heart breaking” – Broadway Baby
“Karlina Grace-Paşeda, as Sarai, delivers a captivating performance from the moment she steps on stage … Beautifully choreographed … spellbinding” – Indielondon
“Karina Grace-Paseda as Sarai is mesmerizing” – London Box Office
“A gripping piece of theatre … a dazzling performance by Karlina Grace-Paseda … Byron Wallen provides a thrilling musical background” – Reviewsgate
“The fusion between Arabic flute and percussion, trumpet, cello and unconventional drum arrangements is stunning” – Exeunt
“The score by Byron Wallen (utilising Jazz, Middle Eastern, and Classical stylings) was worth the price of admission alone.” – Afridiziak
“Breathtaking acting … Sarai is not to be missed” – My Entertainment World
“The story is empowering, the music masterful and the movement stunning.” – A Younger Theatre
“Stunning” – TheatreFullStop
Free post-show events
Thursday 29 October 2015
A discussion about refugees, migration and asylum
Chaired by Julia McNamara, Artistic Director of Vital Xposure. Panellists to be confirmed.
Thursday 5 November 2015
Insights into the creative process
With members of the cast and creative team.
£17 / £14 concessions
Saturday matinees at 3:30pm
31 October, 7 November – £15 / £13 concessions
Opening performances (21-22 October) – All tickets £12
Pay What You Can Tuesdays (tickets in person from 6pm – limited and subject to availability)
Tickets are £10 or less with Arcola Passport
Running time: 1 hour, 30 minutes approximately (no interval)
Recommended for ages 15+
In Studio 2, seating is unallocated.
