Hardhitting new drama in the frame
The Dukes has cued up a new drama probing the lives of young Muslim men during a night out at the snooker hall.
Snookered is the first stage production written by Ishy Din whose career has ranged from video shop and restaurant ventures to selling mobile phones and driving minicabs.
During his varied working life, Ishy has developed an ear for characters, dialogue and storylines which come together in Snookered.
Ishy said: "I used to be a taxi driver and now I'm a playwright who drives a taxi. I feel privileged that I've been given the opportunity to express myself, otherwise my voice as a Northern British Asian would be muted and my attempts to open a window on a largely unexplored world would be firmly shut."
Snookered has a five-strong cast including Burnley-born Muzz Khan who, along with fellow cast member Asif Khan, appeared in Mixed Up North which enjoyed a run at The Dukes in 2009.
The play centres on four mates who meet for a game of pool and a few drinks to honour the memory of another friend's death. Secrets are revealed and allegiances shift as quickly as the drinks are downed. The four young men struggle with their guilt and work out whether their friendship can survive the evening.
Tensions threaten to escalate to a point of no return in this play which contains frequent strong language and adult themes.
Snookered is directed by Iqbal Khan who most recently directed The Importance of Being Earnest starring Gyles Brandreth. He will direct for the Royal Shakespeare Company this year.
Snookered will be performed in The Round at The Dukes in Lancaster from February 9-11 as part of a national tour. There will be a post show talkback after the February 9 performance.
Tickets are priced £14(£12 concessions)/£12(£10 concessions). Standing £5. Students £8.50. To book, ring The Dukes Box Office on 01524 598500 or visit www.dukes-lancaster.org.