Writers of play about HIV extend open invite to Nigel Farage
UKIP leader Nigel Farage has been invited to see a new play that busts myths about HIV – after being accused of perpetuating stigma about the condition.
The UK Independence Party politician has been routinely condemned by HIV charities, last week attacking treatment for migrants with HIV – citing statistics that have since been debunked to justify his view. He claimed in October that people with HIV shouldn’t be allowed to enter the UK.
If Mr Farage requires an education on the matter, the creators of comedy ‘Positive’ have stepped up to the challenge.
The comedy “about kicking HIV in the balls” – which is set to play at London’s Park Theatre from July 9 until August 1 – has extended an open invite to the UKIP leader, so he can “find that the stigma he fiercely promoted is total BS”.
Playwright Shaun Kitchener said: “Whenever HIV is presented on-stage or on-screen it’s usually all doom, gloom and death-beds; but that’s simply not the case in 2015.
“HIV sufferers in Britain today are reportedly more likely to die from depression resulting from the stigma attached to them than they are from the virus itself.
“It’s not that it’s a medical walk in the park, but it’s not a death sentence anymore – and it’s about time theatre reflected this.
“If Mr Farage wants to come along and see the play for himself to learn a thing or two, we’d be more than happy to have him.
He added: “I’m so excited that Positive is part of the Park Theatre’s line-up this year.”
Unsurprisingly, Mr Farage is yet to respond to the invite.
He might have some time on his hands in July, however – UKIP MEP Diane James admitted last week that several party figures were “waiting” to replace Mr Farage as leader if he does not win a seat in South Thanet next month.
