Violent Protests of Play Came After Failed Attempt to Work with Sikh Leaders, Actor Says

December 29, 2004

Source: The Guardian

http://www.guardian.co.uk/arts/news/story/0,11711,1380381,00.html

On December 29, 2004 The Guardian reported, "The violent protests that led to the closure of the controversial play Behzti were the result of a failed attempt to work with Sikh community leaders, a leading actor in the play has said.

Yasmin Wilde, who played Min, the victim in a rape scene which sparked particular criticism, said the play had been closed despite the mixed feelings of the cast after police advised that the violence was likely to escalate.

She said the long consultation between the Birmingham Rep, where the play was performed, and Sikh community representatives in the run-up to the production had caused problems."