In one of his few interviews since being horrifically attacked in 2022, Rushdie delves into his thoughts during and after said attack in his new book ‘Knife: Meditations After an Attempted Murder’ and why he still has hope for the future. Rushdie is composed, his trademark humour shines through, and is firm that the attack had not scared him into “hiding in a corner”. Adjoa Andoh brings extracts of the book to life in a truly captivating performance on the stage, including a moving passage where Rushdie describes meeting and falling in love with his wife. Hope was the overarching emotion of the event, and I left feeling like the world has opportunity through art.

McEwan Hall, 17 Aug, available to stream online.
tw rating 4/5 | [Abigail Tobias]