A story of love and extremism will open a stunningly refurbished Earlsfield theatre.

Paradise of Assassins, adapted from Abdul Halim Sharar’s novel, will be the first show at Tara Theatre since the Edwardian building’s 18-month, £2.7million transformation.

Written more than a century ago and set in medieval Persia, the play tells the story of young lovers who Hussain and Zamurrud who are separated and Hussain is forced to renounce his faith and become radicalised through the medieval Islamic sect the Assassins in order to regain his love.

Anthony Clark, who directed Tara Arts’ first two productions in 1982 and 1984, fittingly returns to direct.

He said: “The struggle for people of faith not to compromise what they believe in in the face of unforeseen circumstances goes to the heart of the human condition. This story touches on terror as political phenomenon and I am interested in the perpetrator who is also a victim.”

The former Mission Hall in Garratt Lane has been home to Tara Arts since 1983 and its extensive refurbishment has ‘transformed it into a cultural palace for the 21st century’, according to artistic director Jatinder Verma.

Antique doors have been imported from India while the stage floor is made from red earth imported from Devon and tree motifs run throughout the building to reflect the idea that the essence of theatre is telling a story on the earth under a tree.

Tickets cost from £15.50. Go to tara-arts.com or call 020 8333 4457.

Read more: PICTURED: Take a look at Tara Arts’ stunning £2.7 million new-look theatre in Earlsfield.

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