ENG-ER-LAND is written & produced by Hannah Kumari. After touring to over 30 venues and being nominated for Best Stage Production at The Asian Media Awards, this new production of ENG-ER-LAND is directed by Max Lindsay and stars Nikhita Lesler as Lizzie. It is currently showing at the King’s Head Theatre in London.
1997 is a confusing time for 14 year old Lizzie. Her mum’s from India, her Dad says he’s Scottish, but she was born here, in England. Rugby to be specific. And all she really (really) wants is to look like Gwen Stefani.
As her mates turn their back when she needs them most, and her Dad’s affection seems to be focused elsewhere, Lizzie starts to question if there’s anywhere she really belongs.
Until she finds solace in an unlikely place.
The Artiscape spoke to Nikhita Lesler about her role in the play.
What attracted you to the script?
Lesler: Asides the humour- it’s got to have been the subject matter. Lizzie is not your stereo typical football fan and I kind of loved that! It was so interesting to me as a I can relate and this alongside the fact mixed stories are not as widely told as I believe they should be – definitely drew me in.
Can you tell us about your character?
Lesler: Lizzie is 14 & mixed South Asian and Scottish heritage – born and bread in rugby. She’s clever, funny, a bit cheeky and completely loveable!
What (if any) research into the character?
Lesler: As she was a teen in the 90s and I was barely born then it was a lot of research into that time- how football and the world she was living in were back then as well as various references to things we don’t have now.
What do you think the audience will enjoy about this production?
Lesler: There’s so much to enjoy about Eng-Er-Land. Hannah’s incredible writing makes for an incredibly engaging and moving story with tonnes of humour and a cheeky bit of audience participation. It’s hard hitting and humorous with a dollop of fun 90s references sprinkled with a touch of Gina G!
What are you looking forward to in performing in the show?
Lesler: It’s been most enjoyable to watch how audiences react to the story. The story is based on Hannah’s lived experiences as a mixed heritage football fan, and I’ve really been enjoying speaking to the audiences after the show and the conversations this has sparked surrounding both identity and football.
ENG-ER-LAND runs from 26 July – 10 August at Kings Head Theatre.
