Stoke on Trent Libraries host ‘Same, Same…But Different’ theatre performances

Meir and City Central libraries will be hosting exclusive theatrical performances of ‘Same, Same…But Different’ from the Sonia Sabri Theatre on Monday 21 February 2022.

The show is non-verbal therefore accessible to D/deaf, partially d/Deaf and EAL/ESOL and non-English speaking audiences and is a relaxed performance therefore accessible to those who benefit, for whatever reason, from a more relaxed environment, such as people with sensory and communication disorders, a learning disability or autism spectrum condition.

‘Same, Same…But Different’ features three dancers from Sonia Sabri Theatre taking you on a funny, delightful and heart-warming journey, exploring our curiosities and fears, the times we feel different, and when we belong.

Inspired by the well-known Anglo-Asian phrase ‘same, same…but different’, meaning ‘Yes, something kind of similar, but not the exact same thing’, three dancers conjure a magical atmosphere where we celebrate our individuality, diversity and the bonds which connect us all. Mixing Kathak, Contemporary and Street dance, physical storytelling and hints of live music to create celebratory dance theatre for everyone.

Councillor Lorraine Beardmore, cabinet member for leisure, culture and public health said: “The ‘Same, Same…But Different’ performances from the Sonia Sabri Theatre are a fantastic opportunity for families to enjoy a truly unique and spellbinding show during the February half term.

“Libraries house a wonderful world where children can get lost in their imagination in whatever types of books they enjoy and the performance by the Sonia Sabri Theatre offers a performance that mirrors that. We’re incredibly excited to have them performing in our libraries and I want to encourage everyone to take the opportunity to see them. Whether you’re a current member of the library or not you can come along enjoy the activities we host, and of course, its free to sign up as a member if you’d like to whilst you’re there”

Sonia Sabri, Artistic Director of Sonia Sabri Company said: “The last 2 years have been such an incredibly difficult time for children, so it seems extremely poignant to be bringing this high-class performance to the doorsteps of communities in England at this time. This is something a professional national touring company rarely does especially in library settings. We therefore very much look forward to providing families with a fun, playful and happy theatre experience after so long.

“We would also like to take this opportunity to thank Arts Council England for their support in helping us to reach so many communities.”

‘Same, Same…But Different’ performances from Sonia Sabri Theatre will take place at 10:30am at Meir Library and 2:30pm at City Central Library on Monday 21 February 2022.