London, Nov 22: A political satire authored by British Indian scientist Vivek Nityananda premiered on the London stage this week, coinciding with UK Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood’s announcement of an overhaul of the country’s immigration system.
The play, titled I Dream of Theresa May, examines the “hostile environment” immigration policy introduced by former Conservative Party Home Secretary and Prime Minister Theresa May. It addresses themes of identity, Britishness, and the systemic challenges faced by migrants.
Nityananda, a lecturer at the University of Newcastle with research expertise in insect behaviour, developed the concept during his relocation to the UK amid tightening immigration policies. The script reflects structural issues linked to settlement rights and migration frameworks.
The production is staged by Tara Theatre, a London-based organisation supporting South Asian performers and creators. Director Natasha Kathi-Chandra described the work as politically relevant, offering a lens on immigration policy while centering South Asian representation.
Set in 2013, the narrative follows Nikhil, a gay Indian man in London portrayed by actor Taraash Mehrotra. The storyline highlights settlement challenges under UK immigration rules, contextualised against current government measures including extended settlement timelines.
