BEND IT BECKHAM LIKE

21 - 23 Feb 2023 5.30pm

DOHA COLLEGE AUDITORIUM

Qr 25

Tickets available - finance o ce (7am-1pm)

Directed and adapted by Jane Williams

Assisted by Simon Miller

Musical Direction: Steph Gomaa

Choreography: Joannah and Lucy

Technical Support Asif Dalvi

Presented by Doha College

Directors note:

Inspired by the FIFA Men`s World Cup hosted here in Qatar, which was an exceptional tournament, and excited for the forthcoming Woman`s World Cup in Australia and New Zealand this year, Bend It Like Beckham seemed the perfect choice for the Senior College Production! In just 6 weeks of rehearsals students have worked with determination, commitment, and passion to bring this show to you this evening.

Interestingly football and theatre require many of the same things of their participants. Physical training, coordination, teamwork, leadership, pattern recognition, adaptability, self-control, and a lot of discipline and practice. They’re even more similar on the highest levels. Both draw large crowds and bring communities together and ultimately inspire many young people. Jules and Jess, the two main protagonists in Bend it Like Beckham, are ambitious teenagers, who despite their parents’ wishes, have their hearts set on a career in professional football.

This production brings a unique cultural fusion of musical theatre to the stage of Doha College as we see generations, cultures and communities brought together in a joyous and uplifting story about bending the rules, following your dreams and scoring that deciding goal. The play continues to remind us to fight for what we want: to fight for what is just, and for what we deserve. As Mr. Bhamra says so wonderfully of his daughter Jess: “I want her to fight, and I want her to win.” The possibility and the power in the stories of Jess and Jules allow us all to dream and achieve. We can be athletes and mothers and strong women. We can be cherished and loved and supported and remain independent.

JANE WILLIAMS Head of KS5 Drama and Director of Mockingbird Performing Arts Academy