ADEEL AKHTAR • "dig where you stand" (Mass / Four Lions / Down Cemetary Road) #669
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In this deeply reflective episode of the Distraction Pieces Podcast, Scroobius Pip sits down with acclaimed actor Adil Akhtar to discuss his return to theatre with the intense, emotionally charged play *Mass* at London's Donmar Warehouse. The conversation unfolds organically, touching on the unique challenges and rewards of live performance—particularly the vulnerability of not having retakes, the evolution of a role over time, and the importance of trusting one's instincts. Akhtar shares insights from his journey from music to acting, emphasizing the shared emotional core between performing on stage and in front of a camera. He reflects on pivotal moments in his career, including his breakout role in *Four Lions*, and the profound influence of mentors like Riz Ahmed and Simon Pegg, who encouraged him to see acting as a form of performance rather than mere emotion. The dialogue also explores the cultural significance of British storytelling—its imperfections, its intimacy, and its power to unite diverse voices. A recurring theme is 'dig where you stand,' a philosophy that celebrates self-discovery through focused, authentic work, no matter how small or local it may seem.
Theatre demands emotional honesty and self-compassion—performances evolve over time, especially with audience presence.
Acting and music share a core emotional truth; both are forms of performance, not just expression.
The best creative work often emerges from small, intimate collaborations rather than big budgets.
Trust in the process and in your own instincts—true artistry comes from digging deep where you are.
Mentorship and connection matter: early support from figures like Shaheen Bey can change the course of a career.
…and 2 more takeaways available in PodZeus
Introduction & Excitement for Adil Akhtar
Scroobius Pip welcomes Adil Akhtar to the podcast, expressing long-standing admiration and excitement for the conversation. He highlights Akhtar's acclaimed roles in *Four Lions*, *Utopia*, and *Showtrial*, and sets the stage for a deep dive into his current work in theatre.
The Intimacy & Evolution of Theatre Performance
“It's a weird one. I don't know what that is, that thing, but it's, you know, it comes back to sort of like, uh, like the old Buddhist thing of like encanting when you say something over and over again, the nature of like repetition, repetition, repetition, it can never be the same thing over and over again.”
From Music to Acting: The Shared Emotional Core
The conversation explores the continuity between Akhtar’s music career and acting, revealing that both are rooted in performance and emotional truth. He reflects on how mentors like Riz Ahmed and Simon Pegg helped him see acting as a craft, not just a feeling.
The Power of 'Dig Where You Stand' & British Storytelling
“It's something about... and when you see a TV show or a bit of a film that does that, you're like, it's extraordinary in its ordinariness. Dig where you stand. I love it.”
Closing Reflections & Gratitude
The episode closes with heartfelt appreciation for the collaborative spirit of theatre and film. Akhtar reflects on the magic of shared creative spaces and the importance of connection, both personal and professional, in creating meaningful work.
“It's extraordinary in its ordinariness. Dig where you stand. I love it.”
“I've got to believe it's resonating with other people on another level. It's the biggest act of faith ever.”
“It's a weird one. I don't know what that is, that thing, but it's, you know, it comes back to sort of like, uh, like the old Buddhist thing of like encanting when you say something over and over again, the nature of like repetition, repetition, repetition, it can never be the same thing over and over again.”
Host
Guest
Adil Akhtar
person
Scroobius Pip
person
Mass
other
Riz Ahmed
person
Four Lions
media
Donmar Warehouse
other
Adolescence
other
Jack Thorne
person
James Graham
person
Utopia
other
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