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The Twilight Saga: New Moon
Theatre
A smart, prickly and rewarding view of sexual and emotional confusion
Cock
Restaurants
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Kitchen W8
Too long and drawn out but very entertaining with excellent special effects
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London,
Fiona Mountford's rating
Reader rating
Description: Nina Raine directs Alia Bano's drama about a single girl looking for love, examining tolerance in and outside of the Muslim community.
Trains: Tube: Sloane Square 
Phone: 0207565 5000
Website: www.royalcourttheatre.com
Cultural confusion and a convincing spin on romantic comedy, crops up in Shades, the marvellously sassy start to the Royal Court’s Young Writers’ Festival. The talented Alia Bano, who will surely win a prize or two for this, takes as her intriguing subject the Muslim dating scene in contemporary London. Party girl Sabrina (delightful Stephanie Street), a Bridget Jones in tighter jeans and better boots, is forced to examine the repercussions of her faith when she meets what initially seems a very wrong Mr Right.
Her gay best friend Zain (Navin Chowdhry) also struggles with issues of tolerance in his community.
It’s sexily directed in a traverse staging by Nina Raine and the young cast bound about with bundles of Tigger-ish energy, which helps to cover up the snappy script’s occasional moments of gaucheness. A memorable debut.
Shades until 21 February (020 7565 5000, www.royalcourttheatre.com).
Details are correct at the time of publication - please check with venue before booking.
