The Wife of Willesden 2023

In her debut play, bestselling author Zadie Smith—whose books include the Man Booker Prize-nominated novel On Beauty— gives us Alvita, a Jamaican-born British woman in her mid-50s holding court at a North West London pub. After a sold-out, critically acclaimed run, this modern translation of Chaucer’s Canterbury Tales comes to the Harvey Theater at BAM Strong. Directed by Indhu Rubasingham, with an ensemble cast starring Clare Perkins in a stunning, exhilarating performance, this exuberant and verbally inventive play showcases the pleasures of Smith’s quick wit. Rich with frank sexuality, it celebrates free expression and the human urge both to live stories and share them.