Blue Mist is a masterful debut from Mohamed-Zain Dada, carefully handling themes of racism whilst challenging stereotypical depictions of Asian men in the UK.
Set in a London shisha bar, Blue Mist seemingly comes off as a promising light comedy but quickly starts challenging the stereotypical depictions of Asian men in the United Kingdom.
Regularly gathering to blow off steam (quite literally) are three inseparable pals: the aspiring journalist Jihad, played by Omar Bynon, the charmingly quirky Sif, skillfully embodied by the delightful Salm Akhtar, and the fitness enthusiast Rashid, portrayed by Arlan Nik (who was the star of the night!).
Director Milli Bhatia’s simplistic and naturalistic moments around the hookah bar are the most precious as the play flows seamlessly while the trio lounges, converses, and plots. “Some want a pint, some want a pipe.”
One thing that is undeniable in this production is the effortless chemistry between the actors that upped the stakes as we moved along the friendship’s deterioration.
Arlan Nik and Salm Akhtar shift through different characters like chameleons while remaining truthful in their bond and friendship. Their performances evolve and truly depict that inner struggles of living in this “borderline”.
The excitement remained constant as the narrative and the progression of the documentary that Omar’s character Jihad is creating became progressively more disconcerting regarding the future of the friendship.
And while the the radio documentary was supposed to be about toxic masculinity, Blue Mist portrays exactly the opposite with Mohamed-Zain Dada incredibly well written debut play. Blue Mist will continue at the Royal Court until 18 November.
This play encompasses many themes of racism and the discrimination felt by the characters in London both externalised and also internalised.
It asks again and again:
Do we blame solely this person for their actions? Or do we blame the society for creating a hostile environment where a hopeful journalist feels like turning on his community is the only way of reaching acceptance and success and therefore justifying his actions as a “step in stone”?
Without going into politics too much, because this is a review after all, in a world of such hatred and uncertainty and regardless of different political views, love is the one strength we have as humans and this play is a reminder of exactly that.
My only critique to Blue Mist is the following: as an immigrant and shisha lover myself, where are the recommendations for the best shisha lounges in London? Joking aside, this ‘shisha lounge’ is well worth a visit.