"Bilal is a character full of life and joy."
In UK theatre and television, Usaamah Ibraheem Hussain stands as a beacon of promise and talent.
The actor is set to star in an exciting play, Peanut Butter & Blueberries, written by Suhaiymah Manzoor-Khan and directed by Sameena Hussain.
Peanut Butter & Blueberries narrates the story of Hafsah and Bilal and premiers at the Kiln Theatre.
The pair are not looking for love – Hafsah is engrossed in her faith, books, and dreams, while Bilal is simply trying to navigate university life.
They are studying in London, miles away from their hometowns of Bradford and Birmingham.
Hafsah and Bilal bond over a peanut butter and blueberry sandwich.
As the chemistry between them intensifies, they come across many obstacles.
Peanut Butter & Blueberries depicts the strength of love and whether it is powerful enough to prevail over worldly issues.
Bilal is played by none other than Usaamah Ibraheem Hussain. He has previously appeared in Soho Theatre’s Brown Boys Swim.
His television credits include Surface and the upcoming BBC series Virdee.
Usaamah delves into his impressive career and exciting new theatre production in our interview.
Can you tell us about Peanut Butter & Blueberries? What is the story?
At its core, it’s a love story, between two Pakistani Muslims.
Although they are from a specific cultural background, I believe their struggle will be understood by many.
What attracted you to the script and the role of Bilal? Can you tell us about his character?
Bilal is a character full of life and joy.
The first time I read the script, I understood a lot about him and wanted to bring his beautifully complicated soul to life.
What motivated you to get into acting?
I grew up watching a lot of great films with my uncles but I was a very shy kid.
But when I got to 17, I found some courage to take my first acting class and I’ve had the passion to be a part of great stories ever since.
What is it that fascinates you about theatre, and how does it differ for you from performing in front of the camera?
I feel great theatre has the ability to stir our emotions more so than film, which can be cathartic or educative and so much more.
Not that film can’t do that but the way many people engage with film today isn’t in an immersive way.
I love being immersed in a story, hearing all the nitty gritty language and getting to speak it.
I feel great theatre can get as close as we possibly can, to the core of human existence and all that comes with it.
Can you tell us about your future projects, including Virdee?
I only graduated from drama school last year and have been so blessed to be a part of some great projects, such as Brown Boys Swim and Virdee.
Virdee is a new BBC crime drama set up in Bradford.
I had a couple of scenes in it, set during the 2001 Bradford riots, which was a very intense experience but a lot of fun!
What advice do you have for budding Desi actors who want to make it in theatre and on television?
Watch films, watch the greats, and then watch films from all over the world.
Start to develop your own taste and follow your own inner compass.
I think you have to find something you want to express, and that can be joy laughter pain, or anything.
Read, read, read plays. Great American plays such as Shakespeare and new writing.
See what resonates and what doesn’t.
Are there any Desi actors who have inspired you in your career? If so, in what ways?
Riz Ahmed, Riz Ahmed, and Riz Ahmed!
Seeing him in Star Wars made me believe I can tell ANY story I want!
And I hope I can continue to inspire younger actors to feel the same.
The journey of Usaamah Ibraheem Hussain from drama school to entertaining the audience through his art is a classic example of working hard and succeeding.
Where do you see theatre currently heading for Desi actors? How would you explain the need for diversity and inclusivity?
Exciting places, more and more of our stories are being told.
But we’re also getting to a place where we are being cast in plays in which Desi actors have never been seen.
Representation is so important – it’s important to see yourself on stage and screen, so you feel a part of society.
Is there anything specific about the Kiln that appeals to you as a venue?
It’s a beautiful theatre space! There have been many great plays on here and the people in the building have the best energy.
It’s a great place to be right now.
Also featuring in Peanut Butter & Blueberries is Humera Syed as Hafsah.
She has also worked extensively in theatre and television.
The production is supported by The Bertha Foundation, The Foyle Foundation, and The Royal Victoria Hall Foundation.
Here is the list of credits:
Bilal
Usaamah Ibraheem Hussain
Hafsah
Humera Syed
Director
Sameena Hussain
Writer
Suhaiymah Manzoor-Khan
Designer
Khadija Raja
Lighting Designer
Rajiv Pattani
Sound Designer
Helen Skiera
Casting Director
Julia Horan, CDG
Production Manager
Marty Moore
Costume Supervisor
Maariyah Sharjill
The previews of Peanut Butter & Blueberries start on August 8, 2024.
The show runs at the Kiln Theatre from August 14 to August 31, 2024.
You can book your tickets here.
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