Is This Comedy Show Breaking the Law in Scotland?

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Saaniya Abbas: Breaking Boundaries in Dubai’s Comedy Scene

Saaniya Abbas has established herself as a prominent figure in Dubai's vibrant comedy scene. Having called the UAE home for 13 years, her journey reflects both the challenges and triumphs of performing in a culturally diverse yet restrictive environment. As a comedian, she navigates strict guidelines that ban sensitive topics like religion and politics, yet she manages to push boundaries, especially with her latest show, "Hellarious," which delves into Islamic themes. This article explores her unique perspective, experiences, and the impact she has on her audience.

The Challenges of Comedy in the UAE

In a country where religion and politics are off-limits for comedians, Saaniya faces a daunting task. "I've had moments where five minutes before I'm about to go on stage, the producer comes and tells me, 'You can't do any religion jokes,'" she recalls. This precarious environment not only tests her creativity but also her resolve as she strives to deliver authentic comedic content. The repercussions can be severe; Saaniya mentions that some comedians have even faced fines or temporary jail time for crossing the line.

Finding Humor in Darkness

For Saaniya, humor is a coping mechanism, especially when dealing with personal challenges. She describes herself as a non-practicing Muslim, which allows her a unique vantage point from which to approach sensitive topics. "I have this one joke that I knew I cannot do here, so I waited till I went to America and to the UK," she explains. This adaptability is crucial in her comedic journey, allowing her to connect with audiences who may have different cultural backgrounds.

The Impact of Censorship on Creativity

Recently, Saaniya faced another hurdle when her Edinburgh preview in Abu Dhabi was canceled due to the religious content in her show. "There's no point in me doing my Edinburgh set, which is mainly about Islamic hell. I had to cancel that. That's been quite difficult for me," she admits. This inability to test her material locally adds an element of risk to her performances abroad, making the Edinburgh Fringe even more exhilarating yet nerve-wracking for her.

The Comedy Landscape in the UAE

Saaniya notes that the UAE's comedy scene is relatively small, with approximately 25 comedians working regularly, the majority of whom are men. Despite this, she emphasizes the advantages of being in a less saturated market. "I got so much stage time when I started comedy here, which I wouldn’t get in a very saturated market like New York or London as a new comic," she explains. This unique aspect of the UAE's entertainment industry has allowed her to hone her skills and find her comedic voice.

A Diverse Cultural Background

Born in New Delhi to a conservative practicing Muslim mother and an atheist father, Saaniya's upbringing is a tapestry of contrasting beliefs and traditions. She attended a Catholic school in the Himalayas, which introduced her to a different set of values compared to her mother's conservative teachings. This blend of experiences shapes her comedy, as she often draws on her cultural background to connect with her audience.

Challenging Traditional Norms

Saaniya’s story also reflects her struggle against traditional expectations, particularly regarding marriage. Growing up, she observed that most of her relatives had arranged marriages, a practice that she ultimately chose to deviate from. "I met an English man from Hampshire and fell in love," she shares, highlighting her pursuit of love over tradition. However, her divorce in 2020 after eight years of marriage became a point of contention with her family, further complicating her relationship with cultural norms.

Turning Pain into Comedy

Through her divorce and other challenges, Saaniya found solace in comedy. "Usually if something terrible happens to me, I like to joke about it because then it feels like there was a purpose behind it," she states. This perspective not only helps her cope but also resonates with many in her audience, particularly those who may feel marginalized or unrepresented in their own lives.

Representation in Comedy

Despite the barriers she faces, Saaniya is determined to create a space for underrepresented voices. After her shows, she often encounters women who express their gratitude for her representation. "I have had many moments where after my shows a Muslim girl will come up to me and say, 'That’s the first time I felt like someone represented me on stage,'" she shares. This feedback not only validates her work but also reinforces the importance of diversity in comedy.

Looking Ahead: Hellarious at the Edinburgh Fringe

Saaniya Abbas is set to perform "Hellarious" at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival from August 1 to 25. Her show promises to be a compelling mix of humor and cultural critique, exploring themes that resonate with many. "I have all these changes I’m making, but I can’t try them out here, so I’m just gonna have to try them in Edinburgh on stage,” she remarks, highlighting her adventurous spirit as she steps into this new chapter of her comedic journey.

Conclusion: The Power of Comedy

Saaniya Abbas's journey through comedy is a testament to the resilience of artists in the face of adversity. Her ability to challenge societal norms while providing representation for marginalized voices is both inspiring and necessary. As she prepares for her performances at the Edinburgh Fringe, we are reminded of the significant role comedy plays in fostering understanding and connection across cultures. How will Saaniya’s experience shape the future of comedy in the UAE and beyond?

Frequently Asked Questions

What topics are banned for comedians in the UAE?

Comedians in the UAE are banned from discussing religion and politics, which can limit their material and creative expression.

How has Saaniya Abbas's background influenced her comedy?

Saaniya's diverse upbringing, which includes experiences with different religions and cultural norms, deeply influences her comedic style and content.

What is "Hellarious" about?

"Hellarious" is a stand-up comedy show that explores themes related to Islamic culture and personal experiences, challenging societal norms and offering representation.

Where can I see Saaniya Abbas perform?

Saaniya Abbas is performing "Hellarious" at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival, specifically at the Guilded Balloon Patter House - Bothie from August 1 to 25.

How can comedy influence cultural perceptions?

Comedy can serve as a powerful tool for challenging stereotypes, fostering dialogue, and promoting understanding across different cultural backgrounds.

As we reflect on Saaniya's journey, one must ask: How can comedy bridge the gap between cultures and foster understanding in an increasingly polarized world? #Comedy #CulturalRepresentation #SaaniyaAbbas

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