20-21 Jun 2025
Penguin
Hamzeh Al Hussien & Amy Golding
One man’s extraordinary journey from Syria to England. “Be proud. Be who you are. Be more Penguin.”
“This is the story of my life (so far). People have a lot of questions. The answer is: ‘Yes. I can do anything.’ ”
Hamzeh Al Hussien arrived in the UK five years ago as part of the Syrian Resettlement Programme. And now in this stage show, this remarkable man is taking you with him on an unforgettable journey to the places he knows best.
Penguin takes us from Hamzeh’s village in the Syrian mountains to Za’atari Refugee Camp in Jordan and on to his new home in Gateshead. And it takes us inside his mind, a place full of music, dancing, fantasies… and marbles. Hamzeh invites the audience to be his childhood friends, to hold up the Moon to light his way, and to join him in his dreams. Don’t miss this uplifting story of hope, courage, resilience and love.
“This is the story of a journey, my journey, and it’s all true.”
“Uplifting tale of finding self-acceptance and joy” **** – The Stage
“an extraordinary tale, told with beautiful simplicity” – Disability Arts Online
Content warnings
This show includes stories about being displaced due to war, refugee camps and ableism (disability discrimination).
Watch the trailer
Visit The Beacon in Bowling Park
The Beacon is a custom-made touring venue for Bradford 2025.
From Thursday 22 May to Sunday 22 June 2025, The Beacon will be in Bowling Park.
Plan your visit below, or get in touch with us on [email protected] for more information.
Bowling Park
Bowling Hall Rd
Bradford
BD4 7TL
Images © Photos by Ish
Access
Join our access scheme to view access tickets or contact our Ticketing team for more information.Sign up →
Wheelchair spaces available to book
If you are a member of our access scheme, sign in to your Bradford 2025 account to book a wheelchair space and companion ticket.
If you have any questions or would like to join the scheme, contact our Ticketing team on [email protected]
Past event
Were you at this event?
Complete our feedback form and let us know what you thought.
Share your feedback
Related Events
23 Sep – 16 Oct 2025
Otherhood
Old Bird Theatre
A story of radical love and found family.
18-19 Oct 2025
BRAVE Festival 2025
Tricia Arthur-Stubbs
Celebrating Black culture through arts events and workshops.
23 - 25 Oct 2025
Bring It Back
Natalie Davies
An immersive theatre experience exploring Bradford's musical heritage.
22 Oct - 2 Nov 2025
