London's Theatre of the East

The Arab British Centre and Dr Johnson’s House, neighbouring organisations based in Gough Square in the City of London, presented a collaborative exhibition London’s Theatre of The East in November 2019. The project invited artists, researchers and the public to (re)examine the historical connections of the Middle East and North Africa and London, via the lens of Dr Johnson’s 1749 play, Irene, set during the fall of Constantinople.
 
Four artists, designers and writers – Nour Hage, Hannah Khalil, Lena Naassana, and Saeida Rouass – were commissioned to respond to the historical context and content of the play, with the support of academic advisors including Professor Jerry Brotton, author of This Orient Isle. The artists examined the period and influential encounters between London and the region from the 16th century onward, when Queen Elizabeth I first started trading with Muslim nations. Their responses were showcased in an exhibit at Dr Johnson’s House and was accompanied by a series of public activities including performances and workshops. This is teh exhibition catalogue.