What Is The Bad Immigrant Roller Skating Show About Immigration In Sheffield?

Let's be honest, the topic of immigration comes up a lot, and it's usually all a bit serious and shouty. But what if there was a way to talk about it that was actually... fun? Imagine tackling big ideas like who belongs where, national identity, and what it means to be an 'immigrant', all while gliding around on eight wheels. That’s exactly what choreographer Jennifer Irons has done. Her unapologetically funny and clever theatre show, Bad Immigrant, is coming to Sheffield, and it's a roller disco with a massive difference.

So, what’s the story?

The whole idea for the show kicked off from a pretty awkward conversation. After the Brexit vote, a neighbour of Jennifer Irons—who is herself a Canadian immigrant and has lived in the UK for 25 years—gave her some 'friendly' advice: maybe it was time to "go home". The thing is, after so many years, the UK is her home. And funnily enough, Canada, the country she was born in, doesn’t exactly want her back. Apparently, she's not rich enough or sporty enough to qualify for a visa there now.

To try and qualify for a Canadian visa as an ‘Elite Sportsperson’, Jennifer decided to take up roller skating for the first time. This personal journey forms the hilarious and touching core of the Bad Immigrant show, exploring the absurdities of borders and what it really takes to belong. It's a story many people can relate to, that feeling of trying to find your group and your identity.

Who is the person behind the skates?

The creator of this amazing show, Jennifer Irons, is a big deal in the world of dance and theatre. She’s an award-winning choreographer who has worked on some massive international projects over the years. She was the Mass Movement Director for over 1,000 dancers at the Edinburgh International Festival, choreographed a number one hit for Olly Murs and Rizzle Kicks, and was even part of the team for the Rugby League World Cup. And for a bit of fun trivia, she was once asked to teach Boris Johnson how to dance. Her incredible experience in creating large-scale, engaging performances is a huge part of what makes Bad Immigrant such a special show, coming to Sheffield this autumn.

Expect the unexpected: German techno and dancing salmon

This is not your average night at the theatre. Forget everything you think you know about stage shows. Bad Immigrant throws it all into a blender to create something totally unique. It’s part heartfelt storytelling, part spectacular dance performance, and part roller disco. The result is an energetic, slightly bonkers, and brilliant hour of entertainment that’s been described as a mix between a local roller disco and Stars On Ice.

So, what can you actually expect to see on stage?

• Incredible dance and movement
• Hilarious comedic storytelling
• An awesome soundtrack featuring German techno
• Yes, even dancing salmon
• Lots and lots of brilliant roller skating

One review puts it this way: the show is ‘thought-provoking, sharply funny, tender, & original with sparkle, sweat & skates’. So, if you want a night out that is surprising and full of energy, this is definitely the show for you.

Putting wheels into action with Skates4Mates

The impact of this funny and powerful show doesn’t stop when the curtain falls. While developing Bad Immigrant, Jennifer co-founded a real-life community group called Skates4Mates. This brilliant project connects the show’s themes of community and belonging with people in the real world. Skates4Mates is a grassroots group that offers something simple but amazing to people seeking sanctuary in the UK: joy, friendship, and wheels!

The idea is that shared activities are one of the best ways for people from different backgrounds to connect. And what’s more fun than roller skating? It’s a way to build friendships and a sense of community together. The project is a fantastic example of how art can lead to positive change, providing a space of sanctuary and support. This community group is a vital part of the show's legacy, helping many people feel welcome.

How to see the show in Sheffield

Ready for an evening of laughter, deep thoughts, and fantastic roller action? The Bad Immigrant show is rolling into the Sheffield University Studio for one night only. This is a fantastic opportunity to see a truly unique piece of theatre that everyone is talking about.

Here are the details you need:

What:	Bad Immigrant by Jennifer Irons
When:	Saturday 8 November at 8pm
Where:	Sheffield University Studio, Shearwood Rd, Broomhall, Sheffield S10 2TD
Tickets:	£16 (£10 concessions).

Don't miss out on this absurdly funny and moving roller disco about immigration. It’s a show that will stay with you long after you've left the theatre.