Tara Theatre gives Permission

For over four decades, Tara Theatre has supported the emergence of generations of South Asian performers, writers, directors, musicians and choreographers…

Tara Theatre this week released the first rehearsal images for Hunia Chawla’s Permission. The production will run from 30 May – 7 June, with an opening night on 2 June.

Permission asks us to consider what liberation looks like between two Pakistani friends, the respectable Hanna (Anisa Butt) and activist Minza (Rea Malhotra Mukhtyar) as they explore the trope of ‘the oppressed Muslim woman’, and is directed by Neetu Singh.

Leaping between a Heathrow immigration line and a rooftop in Karachi, Hanna navigates her political and sexual autonomy by embodying the image of a respectable Pakistani woman. Her best friend, Minza, has little time for respectability politics.

Permission image by Tara Theatre / Adam Razvi

Their tender friendship, set against the relentless backdrop of Karachi, is put to the test when Hanna moves to London to pursue freedom and independence, while Minza remains in Karachi to fight for freedom on the picket line.

Through their journeys, the play casts a questioning eye on the trope of ‘the oppressed Muslim woman’; and the link between patriarchy, protest and the global political order.

Permission is running now at the Tara Theatre through to the 7th of June.

Permission 

30 May – 7 June 2025; 7:30pm / Saturday 31 May & 7 June; 3pm & 7:30pm  / BSL Interpreted Performance: Wednesday 4 June, 7:30pm

Tara Theatre, 356 Garratt Lane, SW18 4ES. Booking details: Permission – Tara Theatre / 020 8333 4457