“The thing about being exceptional Sabrin, you have to believe everybody else isn’t.”
At a Birmingham grammar school bursting with overachievers, political meltdowns, and teenage delusion, best friends Sabrin and Ruqqiyah are free-falling to their futures.
Sabrin secretly prepares for a life-changing music audition, while Ruqqiyah orchestrates a symphony of her own- conducting the fall of a problematic teacher. Between Paramore, panic attacks, and increasingly chaotic schemes, the girls’ clashing priorities reach a crescendo that unveils a growingly strained bond.
Quick-witted and deeply heartfelt, Off-Key is a coming-of-age drama about Black girlhood, ambition, friendship and what happens when the person who knows you best, becomes someone you no longer recognise.
Side eYe is the award-winning collective behind Dugsi Dayz (2022) – which was recently adapted into the BBC Comedy Short, Proper Ladies (2026) – and Desperate Times (2023). Recipient of the Edinburgh Untapped Award (2023) and the BBC Popcorn Award for Dugsi Dayz, Side eYe stages stories by Black Muslim women and their allies.
Please note Fri 30 Oct 7.15pm and Sat 31 Oct 2pm are preview performances.
This tour is supported by Kayd Somali Arts and Culture.
Running Time
Approximately 90 minutes
Age guidance
12+, no under 3s admitted
Where?
Patrick Studio
This production includes strong language and references to suicide
Concessions
We offer a range of discounts and concessions to enable everyone to enjoy an affordable visit to Birmingham Hippodrome.
Concessions for under 16s, 65+, full-time Students & Claimants
£3 off standard price tickets in Price Band A.
Concessions for Patrons with disabilities
£5 off standard price tickets in all seating areas.
2 for 1 for disabled patrons who require the service/support of a companion.
Click here for more information on our Access Performances
Terms and Conditions
Discounts and Concessions are offered subject to availability at the discretion of the Information and Sales Manager. Top three price bands only, unless otherwise stated. Restrictions may apply. Only one discount per ticket may apply, unless otherwise stated. Offers are non retrospective and cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer. Valid ID must be presented where applicable. Additional discounts may be offered from time to time.
Writer and Assistant Director – Fatima Ali Omar
Director – Neetu Singh
Performers – Salma Muse as Ruqqaiyah and Amal Hussein as Sabrin
Dramaturg – Gurnesha Bola
Set and Costume Design – Jida Akil
Sound Design – José Guillermo Puello
Lighting Design – Catja Hamilton
Stage Manager – Alicia Quah
Produced by Side eYe – Khadra Mohamed and Hannah Abdule
Producing support – Balqiis Ali and Nadia Hussein
Marketing and Social media for Side eYe – Ikaay Ebi
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