Islamic belief lists 99 Names and Attributes of Allah, as one is insufficient to paint the whole picture. Likewise, Shahid Iqbal Khan’s play 10 Nights examines a situation from multiple viewpoints to achieve clarity and determine a way forward.
Yasser (Adeel Aliin) is irritated when questioned about his degree of faith, feeling those who regard themselves as more religious hold him in low regard. In a fit of pique, Yasser decides to take part in Iʿtikāf—spending the last ten nights of Ramadan in quiet reflection at a mosque. However, the intention underlying actions is an important theme of the play, and Yasser has a hidden motive, dedicating his prayers to the memory of his late friend Aftab who died in a car crash before he was able to complete Iʿtikāf.
Initially, the challenges Yasser experiences are humorous—having cravings for specific foods while fasting and coping with the mosque’s basic toilet facilities. However, he is also struggling with both guilt and anger. Yasser cannot come to terms with his failure to stop his friend from driving while intoxicated and blames other members of their social circle for not intervening. Other people, however, recall events differently, and Yasser’s trembling hands suggest he has further problems with which to contend.
Author Shahid Iqbal Khan takes a deeply respectful approach to the redemptive and therapeutic power of faith and community. Although Yasser might initially appear sceptical of the religious rituals, it becomes clear he is unconsciously seeking knowledge and guidance as a way of resolving his confused state of mind. He gratefully accepts, rather than disdains, advice from a devout member of the mosque and quickly modifies his behaviour by ceasing to use profanities.
The author is, however, less interested in developing Yasser’s secular background. We learn he is a post office worker and vaguely aspires to be an online influencer but little more. The revelation Yasser has a drink problem is not completely convincing as, if he is so alcohol-dependent as to suffer withdrawal symptoms like trembling hands, one might assume he would have tried to smuggle booze into the mosque. Khan acknowledges faith alone will not cure Yasser’s illness but is regarded as a vital step in helping him face up to his guilt.
Director Sâmir Bhamra sets an authentic reflective and meditative atmosphere. The physical aspects of prayer and ablution rituals are enacted convincingly. Bhamra minimises dramatic flourishes—Yasser’s re-experiencing his childhood encounters with his friend are staged as bittersweet recollections rather than the hallucinogenic effect of fasting. The mood throughout is humble and thoughtful as is appropriate for a character examining his life and moving towards change.
An announcement at the start of the play suggests Adeel Aliin, who plays Yasser, is unwell, but if so, it does not show in his performance. Adeel Aliin quickly moves beyond Yasser’s cocky demeanour and explores his halting efforts to find a way of achieving peace of mind. The approach taken by Aliin reflects an immense sense of gratitude that Yasser manages to express to those who have helped him on his journey and a sense of wonder at the healing power of faith.
In a cynical and stressful period, the spiritual approach taken in 10 Nights is, if nothing else, very refreshing.