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Fledging Presents:

THE BRITISH AMBASSADOR’S BELLY DANCER

Written by: Craig Murray, Nadira Murray and Alan Hescott

Performed by: Nadira Murray

Directed by: Thomas Hescott

Arts Theatre

4 Feb-23rd Feb, 08

Couzens

A review by Amber Gregory for EXTRA! EXTRA!

When the British Ambassador of Uzbekistan, Craig Murray, left his English wife for a belly dancer working in a strip club, the press went wild.  Nadira was branded a ‘bimbo’ and countless other slutty names.   In this powerful performance that has recently moved from the Arcola Theatre to the West End, Nadira tells her version of the story.  It is not an easy one to tell, nor is it an easy one to hear.  We are told of rape; drug smuggling; the powers of the British press.  We are also given an account of life in Uzbekistan; what situations an intelligent, well educated woman can get into.  It gives reasoning and explanations for Craig Murray losing his job as the British Ambassador, and the hardship that he and Nadira endured by the press in a pokey flat in Shepherd’s Bush which they had to move into. 

What is so incredible about this performance is that the story is told first hand by the woman who it all happened to.  Monologues are often difficult performances to watch.  When your eyes are on just one person on stage for 80 minutes talking, alone, it can be challenging to keep the audience’s attention.  This is not the case in this gripping tale. 

Over the years the number of people in the light of fame targeted by the press is constantly growing.  We see individuals, couples and families ripped apart through the words of the tabloids.  There are two sides to every story- and it is wonderful to see someone fighting back to tell their side.  We must obviously remember that this is another side of a story, but it is a great one at that. 

This performance by Nadira is truthful, funny, tragic and sexy.  The snippet of Craig’s own voice also gives the show a feeling of honesty and we hear of the couple’s struggle.  And you never know- one day we may hear his version of this fascinating tale also. 

7.30pm
Box Office: 0844 847 1608
Tickets: £15, £12.50
Performance length: 80 minutes, no interval
6/7 Great Newport Street, London, WC2H 7JB
www.artstheatrelondon.com

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