Leeds and Bradford audiences are in for a treat as Sisters 360, a brand-new, high-energy play about two fearless, hijabi skateboarders, prepares to make its mark. The production will premiere at Polka Theatre from 22 March to Sunday 27 April, before heading to Leeds Playhouse and then becoming part of the Bradford 2025 UK City of Culture programme in May. It promises an exhilarating mix of comedy, heart, and gravity-defying tricks.
Written by acclaimed playwright Asif Khan (Jabala and the Jinn), Sisters 360 follows stepsisters Fatima and Salima, who are determined to dominate the skateboarding scene—just like their hero, Olympic medallist Sky Brown. But when their parents drop the bombshell that they might be moving to different cities, the duo must pull off their most daring trick yet: keeping their dream (and their sisterhood) alive.
The story takes inspiration from real-life skateboarding sisters Layna, Maysa, and Amaya, three young Muslim girls from Hull who picked up skateboarding after watching Sky Brown at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics. Playwright Asif Khan was drawn to their story, seeing them as a powerful example of breaking stereotypes:
“I loved how the sisters were challenging perceptions—not just about being Muslim but also about being girls in skateboarding. It’s been an extremely difficult period for many in the Muslim community and I hope this new play will, in a small way, go to provide some joy and positive representation, as well as being a really fun experience at the theatre. I can guarantee that Fatima and Salima are truly, the coolest people to hang out with.”
Bringing Fatima and Salima to life are Sara Abanur (Of All The Beautiful Things In The World, Bad Science) who was recently awarded the prestigious Wyllie Longmore Award 2024/25—a testament to her exceptional talent.
And Farah Ashraf (Pink Rabbit, Santi & Naz). A graduate of The Oxford School of Drama, she previously trained with The National Youth Theatre. Beyond acting, Farah is a spoken word artist passionate about socio-political issues, a lover of burlesque and pole dance, and a collector of retro-styled fashion pieces.
Given the energy and charm required for these roles, it’s safe to say that audiences will be rooting for these two from the moment they step (or skate) onto the stage.
Polka Theatre’s Artistic Director Helen Matravers couldn’t be more excited:
“Asif’s portrayal of Fatima and Salima’s love for one another, for their family, and their passion for skateboarding is full of magic, humour, and heart. This play is about tackling challenges, chasing dreams, and being whoever you want to be. It feels important for young audiences to see—and in the hands of this incredible creative team, it will shine.”
Where to Catch Sisters 360
Polka Theatre, London: 22 March – 27 April
Leeds Playhouse: 7 – 10 May 2025
Community & Schools Tour (Leeds): w/c 12 May and w/c 19 May
Bradford 2025 UK City of Culture Programme: 30 – 31 May 2025
The show will also tour schools across London in Spring 2026, following in the footsteps of Polka Theatre’s successful Romeo and Juliet schools’ tour.
