As the premiere of 'Shifters' approaches at Riksteatern, actor John Njie finds himself in the spotlight for his first leading role on a Stockholm stage. The week leading up to the show is hectic, and DN meets Njie on his only day off at a local pizzeria in Årsta, where he often reviews scripts. He expresses that being approached for this project was a significant moment for him, especially after reading the profound and poetic script in English which made a strong impression on him.

In 'Shifters', Njie portrays Dre, a man of African descent who appears sociable on the outside but struggles internally with feelings of abandonment. The play unfolds a nostalgic love story between two people who reconnect later in life after initially meeting as teenagers. Njie shares his enjoyment of playing such a multifaceted character with flaws and admirable traits, emphasizing the importance of portraying a 'whole person' rather than merely being viewed through the lens of his ethnicity.

This role resonates deeply with Njie, who appreciates the opportunity to represent a complete character, reflecting both the challenges and beauty of the human experience. He critiques the tendency to define Black actors primarily through the perspectives of others, expressing hope that his portrayal will contribute to a broader understanding of diverse narratives in theater.