Komola Collective R+D weeks

13-17 April / 27 April – 1 May

Komola Collective returns to Soho Poly for the Research and Development stage of Elephant in the Room, a new family dance‑theatre production exploring sisterhood, neurodiversity and South Asian girlhood. Supported by Arts Council England, this early development phase brings together playwright Leesa Gazi, director Filiz Ozcan, and award‑winning dancer‑choreographer Ching‑Ying Chien (Akram Khan Company) to experiment with movement, storytelling and early puppetry inspired by A Thousand and One Nights.

Across two weeks of rehearsal at Soho Poly, the creative team will shape the physical language, sound world and narrative of the piece, working closely with community partners Magic Care Moments. The R&D will culminate in a sharing for students, families, carers and invited industry guests, followed by a panel discussion with mental health and neurodiversity specialists. There may also be handful of tickets made publicly available – so watch this space!

This project builds on Komola Collective’s three‑year relationship with Soho Poly and forms part of our commitment to supporting bold, inclusive work that amplifies underrepresented voices. We’re delighted to host this next chapter of Elephant in the Room as it begins its journey toward a full production and 2027 tour.”