The Chosen Haram

Te Ahurei Toi o Tāmaki | Auckland Arts Festival presents the Chosen Haram.

An award-winning, emotionally candid work about sexuality, faith, addiction and connection that’s also a unique and complex take on circus.

Something that is ‘Haram’ is forbidden by Islam. The Chosen Haram tells the story of two gay men and their chance meeting through a dating app, portraying the highs and lows of their relationship and the social, cultural and personal barriers they face in seeking happiness and fulfilment.

Based on Edinburgh-born artist Sadiq Ali’s experience, combined with interviews with members of the LGBTQ+ community who identify as (ex) Muslim, The Chosen Haram explores the struggles faced by many people whose upbringing contradicts their personal truths, and how this can lead to self-destructive behaviour.

Expect a heady mix of love, drugs and Islam, set to a banging soundtrack with ultra-sensual acrobatics on two Chinese poles.

★★★★★ “An astonishing fusion of circus and storytelling.” — Fest Mag

★★★★★ “A beautiful, affecting piece of physical theatre... Powerful, strong and sensual.” — The Queer Review

★★★★ “Brave, thrilling and poignant.” — The Scotsman

Winner, Innovate Award (2021) — Scottish Emerging Theatre Awards

Unforgettable Performance, Lustrum Award (2022) — Summerhall Edinburgh Fringe Awards

Suitable for ages 16+
Contains simulated drug use and depictions of sex