Introduction to Proper Ladies
The BBC's Proper Ladies has taken social media by storm with its chaotic energy and sharply observed teenage dynamics, drawing comparisons to shows such as Derry Girls and Some Girls. The 10-minute short follows four schoolgirls in detention, where friendships, rivalries, and acts of rebellion unfold. With its absurd, quick-witted, and fast-paced humor, it leans into the heightened logic of teenage life.
The Creation and Concept of Proper Ladies
Proper Ladies is created by writer Sabrina Ali, based on her award-winning stage play Dugsi Dayz. The show is an attempt to make TV that's "messy, chaotic, and funny". It follows Salma, a model student and prefect, who tries to keep order among her misbehaving peers. The characters' antics include slipping laxatives into their teacher's drink and setting off the fire alarm to conceal a secret. Ali plays the character of Munira, who runs an underground energy drink business from inside the school.
The Characters and Casting Process
The four main characters form a tight-knit ensemble built around recognizable teenage archetypes. The cast includes Samira Tahlil as Salma, Ebada Hassan as Yasmin, and Kosar Ali as Hani. The casting process involved an open callout on Instagram and TikTok, inviting applicants with little to no acting experience. This approach allowed for a more diverse and representative cast.
From Stage to Screen: The Journey of Proper Ladies
The pilot is in development with the potential to become a full series, following a four-year journey from stage to screen. Ali began adapting the material for television with backing from executive producers, including Michaela Coel. The shift from theatre to television didn't change the show's perspective, with Ali aiming to see the world through the girls' lens.
The Impact and Future of Proper Ladies
Ali hopes that her comedic approach reshapes how Black and Muslim characters are often positioned in British television. Despite facing racist and Islamophobic abuse online, the cast has received an outpouring of love and support. The show's existence highlights the need for more diverse representation on British television. With its unique blend of humor and relatability, Proper Ladies has the potential to become a groundbreaking series.
