Harvey Virdi – författare

People always think a woman who thinks for herself, who speaks her mind is dangerous. So I didn’t talk about my dreams or what was in my heart. And I was scared. Scared to let you follow your dreams. I didn’t know how to. But keeping quiet didn’t make my life better. It just made it lonely.The Johals are celebrating Sunita’s birthday in Mum’s new kitchen, and you’re invited to the surprise party. It’s not just the dhal that’s bubbling under the surface – with decades of unfinished business, everyone’s true selves start to burst out when they least expect it. And it’s up to the family to pick each other back up and celebrate themselves for who they truly are.Unexpected guests, butter-free roti and skeletons in the cupboard aren’t enough to stop them busting out some classic Punjabi shapes in the kitchen! Join the Johal family for a wild ride that will leave you laughing, crying, and talking all the way home. Put on your birthday party finery and get ready for a samosa saga, by writer and actress Harvey Virdi (Bend It Like Beckham, Coronation Street, Hollyoaks, Citizen Khan).This edition was published to coincide with the Rifco Theatre Company UK tour in April 2023.

The first play collection of Rifco Theatre’s work, this book is a celebration, a call to action, and an essential read for anyone interested in theatre, storytelling, and cultural representation.Rifco’s work is dedicated to amplifying British South Asian voices in theatre, showcasing stories that explore identity, tradition, and cultural duality. Despite their significant contributions, British South Asian artists remain underrepresented in the arts. Their work is often fragmented and difficult to access, limiting opportunities for both artists and audiences.Rifco creates a structured platform that not only celebrates British South Asian theatre makers but ensures their voices are heard. Through curation, engagement, and advocacy, they making these stories more visible and accessible to wider audiences. In this, their first play collection, the work explores cultural identity, family, LGBTQ+ representation, activism, and social change - offering nuanced portrayals that go beyond stereotypes and redefine representation.Featuring the plays Deranged Marriage and There’s Something About Simmy by Pravesh Kumar; Dishoom by Gurpreet Kaur Bhatti; and Meri Christmas and Miss Meena & The Masala Queens by Harvey Virdi, this edited volume is introduced by the company and makes these works available in print for the first time.