RYMAN AND THE SHEIKH
Theatre Review

Starring: Rehan Sheikh, Chris Ryman
Showing at Soho Theatre, Dean Street, London

The team behind the hugely successful play 'East Is East' are back with a bang. Their latest production 'Ryman and the Sheikh' has been made on a smaller scale and is currently showing to packed audiences in London, where it has received some rave reviews from the critics.

'Ryman and the Sheikh' is set in the studios of a brand new British Asian television channel. Whilst battling each other to make the biggest impact, the channel's two completely opposite presenters also struggle with the cultural differences that comes between them. The first presenter, know as 'The Sheikh' is the portly middle -aged prince of prime time Pakistani television. He has starred in several different serials, playing very similar characters in each one, and now hopes to make his mark in the UK. The Sheikh's co-presenter is the youngster Ryman. He's the ambitious, gangly geezer from London who has a gift of the gab.

The boisterously interaction between the two characters is the selling point of the show. The differences they face and the realisations met provide a different angle to the funny one-liners. However the interaction is not only limited to the two characters - it also involves the audience, who are encouraged to ask questions and participate.

Chris Ryman and Rehan Sheikh handle their characters with confidence. Although 'The Sheikh' provides more laughs for the audience, Ryman's character is also likable. The show appeals to a diverse audience, although anyone who has knowledge of the Indian languages and television culture will benefit further from some 'inside' jokes. If you're a fan of theatre and enjoying watching something different, then here's an opportunity you shouldn't miss!

For more details, visit: www.rymanandthesheikh.com

REVIEWED BY ROBEEL HAQ