On 20 March, Chai Cup Productions webcast a bilingual play ‘Corona – Umeed naa khona!’ (Corona – Don’t lose hope!) – in Urdu and English about the impact of the pandemic on a South Asian family. This was followed by a live Q&A session where the attendees had the opportunity to ask questions of an expert panel.
The pandemic has had a disproportionate impact on BAME groups, including the South Asian communities. Drama is seen as an innovative way to engage audiences from this community where there is concern about the low take up of vaccinations. The cast consists of Yorkshire-based NHS staff including 5 hospital consultants and a GP, who have been raising awareness of issues such as dementia, end-of-life and now COVID through drama. The expert panel responded to queries such as about taking the vaccine during Ramadan, measures to address the fake vaccine news in the South Asian community and risk for people with heart conditions.
The group is exploring holding similar online events for other community groups across Yorkshire and nationally. The next event is on 10 April 2021 at 7 pm and is free, email to register.
