New writer and director AJ will present his first play AISHA at the Hens and Chickens Theatre from the 13th June. 

AISHA is about an underage girl that was forced into marriage with a man triple her age. Aisha was sold in exchange for an expensive dowry. She is bound to domestic duty, denied every human right, abused, and forced to submit to any sexual act her husband wishes to bestow upon her. How will she continue to cope?

Through rhythmic verse, AJ explores the practice and repercussions of child marriage, something that is still practised in the UK today, with the Home Office estimating that between 5,000 and 8,000 young people a year are at risk.

Casting for the production includes: Alexander Lincoln (MMBF ‘Rising Star’ 2016), Olivia Valler-Feltham (Mountview), Ayo Oyelakin (Actors Temple and Anthony Meindl’s Actor Workshop) and Sabrina Richmond (Acting for Film Conservatory, New York), and the theatrical debut  Laura Adebisi, who plays the now 17-year-old titular role.

25-year old writer, director and producer AJ said: “I strive to create unconventional and thought-provoking work that audience members can deeply engage with. Theatre should be and can be used as a medium to transform society. Aisha is a clear representation of this; I chose to artistically portray the grave effect child marriage can have on a child, in hope that the conveying of this will bring to light a social-ill that is somehow dangerously overlooked.”

A large percentage of the box office sales will be donated to certain forced marriage, child marriage, and child sexual exploitation charitable organisations.

AISHA will play at The Hen and Chickens theatre from the 13th to the 24th June. To book tickets visit: https://www.unrestrictedview.co.uk/ailia-presents-aisha-by-aj/