Birds of Paradise Theatre Company

Scotland's touring theatre company promoting disabled artists and supporting the arts sector

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A photograph captures a quaint street corner with Moroccan architectural details, including a wooden door framed by intricate white stone carvings. To the left, a sign for "The Sunshine Spa," announces "Trauma, Triggers, and Free Mint Tea" in a decorative floral design. The walls are textured in shades of peach and terracotta, adding to the warm ambiance.

Productions ►  

The Sunshine Spa

A heartwarming comedy with unexpected connections across cultures

Set in the vibrant heart of Marrakesh, ‘The Sunshine Spa’ is a touching, funny and thought-provoking play that brings together two strangers – Iain, a wheelchair user from Manchester on holiday with his partner, and Zainab, a young Moroccan woman working at a tourist spa to maintain her independence.

Our coproduction with Play, Pie and a Pie came about from our call-out in 2024 to support a new disabled playwright.

Written by Simon Jay
Directed by Robert Softley Gale

Co-produced with Play, Pie and a Pint

When Iain mistakenly visits the Sunshine Spa looking for a completely different experience, what unfolds is a beautifully awkward, deeply human encounter that challenges both characters’ preconceptions. Through the intimate setting of a traditional hammam treatment, Iain and Zainab navigate cultural differences, personal traumas, and unexpected vulnerability.

The image shows an advertisement for "The Sunshine Spa," with a tagline of "Trauma, triggers and free mint tea." The ad is set against a graphic in tan, with orange, gold, and navy blue accents. The graphic is comprised of a stylized arrangement of abstract elements resembling flower petals and leaves, arranged in a symmetrical, vaguely mandala-like pattern. The spa's name is displayed in a circular frame that adds a focal point to the design. The color palette is warm, with the navy providing a grounding contrast, that evokes a sense of calm and warmth.

With sharp humour, poignant moments of revelation, and thoughtful exploration of themes including disability, sexuality, cultural identity and human connection, ‘The Sunshine Spa’ offers a refreshing perspective on how meaningful relationships can bloom in the most unexpected places.

This warm and witty production celebrates the transformative power of genuine human connection, reminding us that sometimes our most profound healing comes not from where we planned, but from where life unexpectedly leads us.

A person with fair skin, light brown hair, and glasses smiles slightly in a close-up shot. He wears a light blue shirt with a white and blue floral pattern, which adds a touch of style to his appearance. A green background can be seen behind him.
Simon Jay – writer of ‘The Sunshine Spa’
Iain played by Stephen Smith Taylor
Zainab played Fatima Jawara

The Team

Fatima Jawara – Zanaib
Stephen Smith Taylor – Iain
Simon Jay – Writer
Robert Softley Gale – Director
Andrea Cabrera Luna – Assistant Director and Caption Operator
Tim Reid – Video and Caption Designer

Access

Pre-show Audio Description: Below is a video where our two actors introduce themselves.

Set and Costume Descriptions audio files:

BSL interpreted performances will be on Wednesday 21st and Saturday 24th May. The interpreter will be Greg Colquhoun. Greg won’t be embedded within the performance but will be staged in a way that works well for this production.

Captions will be creatively embedded into the style of the show and will be there for every performance.

Sensory Bags will be available for people who may benefit from a different sensory experience during the show

Dates

19th – 24th May 2025 @ 1pm
Oran Mor

Glasgow

Access Info

Features & Reviews

“..a warm and human take on everyday solidarity across cultures where differences might normally turn into something toxic.”
The Herald
“..in Robert Softley Gale’s gently effective and knowing production, there’s no resisting the beguiling performances..”
The Scotsman
“Jay’s script is punchy and witty with some brilliantly creative profanity. While there’s a silliness to the concept of this show there’s a much deeper meaning as both characters explore their vulnerabilities.”
Broadway Baby

Photos & Videos

Rehearsal shots – photographer Tommy Ga-Ken Wan

A photograph captures a quaint street corner with Moroccan architectural details, including a wooden door framed by intricate white stone carvings. To the left, a sign for "The Sunshine Spa," announces "Trauma, Triggers, and Free Mint Tea" in a decorative floral design. The walls are textured in shades of peach and terracotta, adding to the warm ambiance.