About the project

The past decade has seen a resurgence of British South Asian theatre, with a new generation of playwrights, whose work speaks to contemporary themes and stories, coming into the spotlight. These writers are not only making their mark on the contemporary stage, but also responding to the legacy of the British South Asian theatre canon, reworking its themes, challenging its limits, and forging new theatrical languages for a changing world. Their work reflects urgent questions for theatre makers and audiences: how theatre speaks from, to, and with British Asian communities; how identity is shaped and reshaped through performance; and how stories rooted in specific experiences can resonate far beyond them.

The Next Act is also a space for open dialogue about the challenges and opportunities facing British South Asian theatre today - from representation and access, to innovation, funding, and the evolving role of culture in public life. It offers a front-row seat to a shifting landscape, where bold new stories are being told, traditions are being reimagined, and a new generation of playwrights is crafting the future of British South Asian theatre.

Follow the series to hear these perspectives, stories and ideas.