Review: East Is East - Opera House, Manchester

The popular film East is East has been transformed on to the stage in this witty, thought provoking and entertaining production.

Written and starring Ayub Khan Din as George Khan, the Pakistan father who arrives in England with nothing but ends up owning a Fish and Chip shop and Jane Horrocks as his long suffering wife, Ella Khan, the show is just as good as the film version.

Set in Salford in the 1970's George Khan is determined to give his 6 children a strict upbringing against the turmoils of Britain in the 70's. His youngest son Tariq (Ashley Kumar) gives him the most grief. Clad in a parka coat throughout, he hides behind himself by wearing the coat.

There are plenty of references to Yorkshire and Bradford in particular; Bradistan as they refer to it is where the family come from whose daughters are part of the arranged marriage that George has planned for two of his sons.

It is a hilarious night out, Jane Horrocks plays a very convincing role as mother and peacemaker of the house with her loyalties divided between her marriage and the free will of her children. The show has its darker moments too with domestic abuse coming to the fore.

Taj Atwal plays a starring role as sparkly schoolgirl Meenah who has some classic put down lines for her brothers. Sally Bakes plays catholic neighbour Auntie Annie with a direct northern no nonsense approach.

At just over 2 hours long, you never wanted it to end.

The whole play was a delight from start to finish.

Runs until Saturday 31 January, 2015 Tickets from; www.atgtickets.com/Manchester