Danish Sheikh on Queer Love, Courtrooms and Creative Freedom

Passion, ghosting and heartbreak— all part of Danish Sheikh's intimate yet toxic relationship with the law. The lawyer-activist and theatre-maker is now deep in his creative era after witnessing how judicial systems have both turned their back on and embraced LGBTQIA+ communities. From navigating Section 377 in India to celebrating his sexuality in the streets of Melbourne, Danish shares with Suhayla Sharif how his experiences have formed his understanding of acceptance. They also unpack how authentic stories and Taylor Swift helped shape his show 'Much to do with Law, but More to do with Love' at Midsumma Festival 2026. Listen now, only on SBS Spice.

Lawyer-activist and theatre-maker Danish Sheikh explores with SBS Spice how queer courtroom stories translate onstage. Tap the audio player to listen now.

Theatre doesn't have to be rational in the way that law needs to be rational. What that has done for me with my work is allow people to feel the sensation of uncertainty.

Danish Sheikh, Lawyer-activist and theatre-maker

SBS Spice is your go-to for South Asian Australian culture, exploring what makes us tick—or ick. Catch us on your favourite podcast platforms: Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube and the SBS Audio app. Or tap the audio player to listen to the full episode. Follow SBS Spice on Instagram @SBSSpice and never miss an update.

Love creative deep-dives? Add these to your playlist:

LISTEN TO

Conflictorium: Holding Space for Dissent

SBS Audio

23:44English

LISTEN TO

Project Dastaan: Sparsh Ahuja's Lens on Partition and Peacebuilding

SBS Audio

25:50English

LISTEN TO

Is Food Resistance? Sri Vamsi Matta on Caste and Cooking

SBS Audio

19:38English

New episodes drop every week. Find and follow SBS Spice on Instagram @SBSSpice and never miss an update.