Tag: london theatre

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The Stage Debut Awards 2024

On Sunday 29 September 2024, I attended The Stage Debut Awards. The Debut Awards highlight breakthrough actors, writers, directors, designers, composers/lyricists across 8 categories.

I had the amazing opportunity to meet the award nominees, guest performers, and hosts. I loved speaking with them, learning about their journey & their excitement to be part of this joyous ceremony!

Here are my interviews from the evening:

Joshua Ginsberg – Nominee for Best Performer in a Musical for ‘Cable Street‘

How does it feel to be nominated?

Joshua: It’s an honour. I’m so proud of this show and to be a part of it. I’m very happy to be here.

Would you mind telling us about Cable Street?

Joshua: It’s set in 1936 and is the story of three different communities. A time when Oswald Moseley’s British Union Fascists were on the rise. There was a battle on Cable Street to blockade the march. It’s a story of communities coming together to rise up and stand for what’s right.

Any advice for young, aspiring performers trying to make it into Musical Theatre?

Joshua: Just be patient and focus on your craft. Keep developing your skills. There can be a lot of rejection, you’ve just got to persevere.

Francesca Amewudah-Rivers – Nominee for Best West End Debut for ‘Romeo + Juliet’

How does it feel to be nominated?

Francesca: It feels great – I am very humbled to be in a room with so many amazing people who I’ve looked up to for the longest time. Especially now to be able to celebrate. It was a tough old job, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to be like, “Yeah, I did that!” We did that – the community. It’s a win for all of us! It was all of us that got me through this. I couldn’t have done this without the community support. My fellow black creative communities. It’s amazing, I’m celebrating for all of us.

Any advice for aspiring creatives, particularly Black creatives?

Francesca: Make your own work. ‘Kola Nut’ (at Bush Theatre) was an experiment with West African storytelling and that was the beauty of that show. We were bringing our creative flexes into the space. Keep on working on your own thing, your own craft. Connect with your culture. That is what is going to carry you through. That is the secret ingredient! (laughs) That’s the sauce! It’s important. You’re not alone, it’s spiritual, it’s ancestral. We’re all behind you. 

Daniel Bailey – Winner for Best Creative West End debut for ‘Red Pitch’

How does it feel to win ‘Best Creative West End debut’?

Daniel: It feels good. It’s good to be recognised for the work you do. And it’s about recognising all those that contributed to the show and made the show what it was.

How did it feel moving ‘Red Pitch’ from Bush Theatre to the West End

Daniel: I felt it needed the space to grow. I will always love it at the Bush, but I wanted us to be able to reach new audiences. It still felt like it kept its authenticity. It still kept its south London swag. It was good to come up in the West End and have us, unapologetically Black. Unapologetically from the ends in West End

Any advice for aspiring directors/creatives?

Daniel: Your unique selling point is you. There’s no one else that can be you, better than you. And that also applies to the work that you make. Bring yourself to it as much as you can. Don’t hide that part of yourself.

Azuka Oforka – Winner for Best Writer for ‘The Women of Llanrumney’

Congratulations! How does it feel to have won ‘Best Writer’?

Azuka: To win ‘Best Writer’, for your first play – I’d say it’s a dream come true. But I honestly didn’t dream of this. Just to be commissioned to write a story that you’re passionate about, is a dream come true.

Any advice for aspiring writers?

Azuka: Finish your plays. Consistency is really important. I’m 42 – and I made my debut at 42 years old. If I was consistent, I might have had an earlier debut (laughs). Finish the work, share the work, and hopefully you get feedback. Feedback helps you grow and become a better writer.

And how are you going to celebrate?

Azuka: I only sipped slowly on a glass of bubbly earlier, because I was nervous. Now, I’m going to sip quicker! (laughs)

The Winners in Full:

Best Performer in a Play (Sponsored by Theatrical Rights Worldwide):
● Ellie-May Sheridan for London Tide at National Theatre, London
● Louis McCartney for Stranger Things: The First Shadow at Phoenix Theatre, London

Best Performer in a Musical (Sponsored by Michael Harrison Entertainment):
● Jeevan Braich for Starlight Express at Troubadour Wembley Park Theatre, London
● Grace Hodgett Young for Sunset Boulevard at Savoy Theatre, London

Best Director (Sponsored by Arts Council England):
● Sophie Drake for The Bleeding Tree at the Southwark Playhouse Borough, London

Best Designer (Sponsored by Preevue):
● Nathan Amzi and Joe Ransom (video) for Sunset Boulevard at Savoy Theatre,
London

Best Writer (Sponsored by Sonia Friedman Productions):
● Sam Grabiner for Boys on the Verge of Tears at Soho Theatre, London
● Azuka Oforka for The Women of Llanrumney at Sherman Theatre, Cardiff

Best Composer, Lyricist or Book Writer (Sponsored by Crossroads Live):
● Jack Godfrey for 42 Balloons at The Lowry, Manchester

Best West End Debut Performer (Sponsored by Noël Coward Foundation):
● Jack Wolfe for Next to Normal at Wyndham’s Theatre, London

Best Creative West End Debut (Sponsored by Trafalgar Entertainment):
● Daniel Bailey (director) for Red Pitch at @sohoplace, London

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REVIEW: Princess Essex – Shakespeare’s Globe

🎭 Princess Essex
📍Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre
🎟️ AD-Gifted
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

‘Anyone can be a Queen, but a real Queen wears the crown, she doesn’t let the crown wear her.’

Princess Essex at Shakespeare’s Globe transports us to 1908 Southend-on-Sea in this fast-paced, empowering comedy inspired by true events. Written and performed by Anne Odeke, the show is based on a woman who broke racial barriers, becoming the first Black woman to enter a beauty pageant in the UK.

In this playwrighting debut, Odeke is also the first woman of colour to write and star in a play at Shakespeare’s Globe. We quite literally were watching history being made!

c. Johan Persson

Odeke stars in the role of Joanna, a mixed-race maid who is fed up with how she is treated, and the limitations imposed on her. Joanna decides she should enter the local beauty pageant, by pretending to be a Senegalese royal named Princess Dinubolu. By presenting herself as a princess, Joanna believes people will be more accepting of her race because she is of a higher social class.

Directed by Robin Belfield, this production is infused with irresistible energy, humour, and musical moments, played by an impressive supporting band. Though the set is minimal, it doesn’t detract from the experience. With clever use of props and numerous, vibrant costumes, the audience is transported to the seaside town, and it becomes one of the most entertaining and imaginative productions I’ve seen.

Odeke’s writing is as much an inspiring history lesson as it is a comedy, highlighting issues of race, class and feminism, that resonate powerfully today. As the show challenges stereotypes and barriers placed on people of colour and women, it encourages the audience to reflect on how far we’ve come—and how much further we still must go. I also appreciated how the farcical moments did not diminish the gravity of the themes. The writing and direction successfully balance the light-hearted moments with the more serious themes.

c. Johan Persson

Odeke is a standout on the stage. Her quick wit, charm and precise comedic timing keep the audience laughing while rooting for Joanna throughout. The satirical humour is sharp, clever and well-paced. Odeke is supported by a talented ensemble, who seamlessly shift between multiple roles, while singing and dancing. They add a lively energy to the show and deliver strong comedy performances. Notable mentions to Eloise Secker who hilariously performs as Violet, while John Cummins’s portrayal of King Edward VI is delightfully absurd! These hysterical moments

My interpretation of this production is that it tackles the erasure of Black history, particularly the stories of women whose contributions are often overlooked. With themes of identity, beauty standards and belonging, Odeke has written a bold and refreshing story. The final scenes were a significant reminder of the importance of representation, which made me feel quite emotional.

c. Johan Persson

Princess Essex is an empowering, thought-provoking and entertaining piece of theatre. The show challenges stereotypes and celebrates the importance of being our true authentic selves. With lively performances and a fantastic script, this is an incredible debut from Anne Odeke & Robin Belfield and a must-see theatre show!

Princess Essex is playing at Shakespeare’s Globe until 26 October 2024!

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REVIEW: Kiss Me, Kate – Barbican Theatre

🎭 Kiss Me, Kate
📍Barbican Theatre
🎟️ AD – Gifted
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Kiss Me, Kate returns to London with a dazzling revival by Bartlett Sher. The 1948 musical by Bella and Samuel Spewack, with music and lyrics by Cole Porter, remains a theatrical classic! The story revolves around the production of a musical version of Shakespeare’s The Taming of the Shrew, and the off-stage romantic conflicts and entanglements among the cast.

With laugh-out-loud moments, chaotic backstage antics, powerful vocals, and spectacular choreography, Kiss Me, Kate could be the show of the season!

Photo by Johan Persson

The musical comedy follows a divorced couple, Lilli Vanessi and Fred Graham, as they attempt to perform a musical version of a Shakespeare classic. The ex-spouses star as Petruchio and Katherine and their tumultuous relationship is mirrored in their performances. Along with the romantic entanglements, there’s also a mishap with gambling debts and gangsters, further adding to the comedic chaos. Stephanie J. Block makes her London debut in the lead role, as glamourous Hollywood star, Lili Vannessi. Lilli is confident, witty and has a fiery temperament – much like the character she portrays in The Taming of the Shrew.  Stephanie J Block was outstanding in this role, showcasing her award-winning talent and the most gorgeous vocals. I especially loved when she sang ‘I Hate Men’, with such ferocity! While the titular track, ‘Kiss Me, Kate’ showed off Block’s impressive operatic range.

Adrian Dunbar stars as Fred Graham, the director of the show, playing the character with endless charm and charisma. Like Lilli, Fred is witty and exudes confidence that borders on arrogance. Dunbar and Block had great chemistry and comedic timing, providing the audience with plenty of laughter.

Photo by Johan Persson

Michael Yeargan’s two-level stage features a revolving section, creating a clever and dynamic visual experience, revealing the split narrative between the on-stage and off-stage drama.

While there were many farcical moments throughout the show, Bartlett Sher’s direction felt slick and authentically funny. The scene-stealing Gangster duo, played by Hammed Animashaun and Nigel Lindsay, had the audience in stitches with their catchy performance about the Bard in ‘Brush Up Your Shakespeare!’ The well-deserved round of applause they received was a highlight of the evening.

Jack Butterworth as Paul, led the sizzling opening in Act 2 with the notable ‘Too Darn Hot’, accompanied by a talented ensemble. Choreographed by Anthony Van Laast, this spectacular jazz-style number was an iconic way to begin the second act. Vocal powerhouse and rising star, Georgina Onuorah, also stole the show with a lively, flirtatious rendition of ‘Always True to You in My Fashion.’ Charlie Stemp, known for his signature moves, graced the stage with a mesmerising and joyful tap dance number during ‘Bianca’. 

Photo by Johan Persson

Kiss Me, Kate is oozing with energy from this brilliant cast, leaving the audience beaming with joy. The vibrant musical revival still features the hilarious comedy, the classic charm, romance and of course, those showstopping dance routines. All this combined makes the ultimate musical comedy – and a must-see this season!

Kiss Me, Kate plays at Barbican Theatre until 14 September 2024. You can book tickets for this show directly at London Box Office.

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REVIEW: Red Pitch – @sohoplace

🎭 Red Pitch
📍@sohoplace
🎟️ PR invite
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Tyrell Williams’ powerful play returns to Bush Theatre, and explores friendship, change and the impact of gentrification.

The story

We meet Bilal, Omz and Joey (Kedar Williams Stirling, Francis Lovehall and Emeka Sesay) – 3 Black teenagers and aspiring footballers who hang out on Reedbury estate in South London. The trio frequently play football on ‘Red Pitch’, practicing their skills for when they make it professionally. They banter, bicker, talk about girls and recollect their memories on the estate. Throughout the play, the boys prepare for the demolition of the estate and their impending relocation from ‘ends’. 

As the play unfolds, we discover Bilal, Omz and Joey’s aspirations, their family life, and the pressure and expectations held upon them. The regeneration of their estate has a profound impact and the show cleverly explores the disadvantages and potential benefits of this. This powerful story is about friendship, community, our dreams and change.

Photo by Helen Murray

My thoughts

As soon as we enter the space, we are immersed into Bilal, Omz and Joey’s world. The actors arrive on stage, performing kick-ups, and chatting with the crowd – some audience members even joined them on stage!

Having watched the show at the Bush Theatre, it was amazing to see the elevation of the production in terms of the creative design. We feel like we are directly on the estate, with distant sounds of destruction, rattling from the scaffolding, and protests from the residents – all while the boys talk and play football. Khalil Madovi’s sound design is such a subtle yet significant way to showcase the impending changes.  Amelia Jane Hankin’s football-inspired set design transports us to Red Pitch, with the fenced area and goal markings on the floor. This is supported by incredible lighting from Ali Hunter. During the dream-like sequences, the theatre is lit up like a stadium, where the characters envision scoring goals as professional footballers. It’s a literal snapshot of their aspirations, with the flashing lights, cameras, and encores from the crowd – it felt electric!

Photo by Helen Murray

While we may assume football is the focus, ‘Red Pitch’ covers various topics such as friendship, ambitions, and gentrification. Williams has created an authentic piece of theatre, highlighting a relevant topic in our society, that is rarely seen on stage. Inspired by Williams’ own experiences growing up, the story takes a personal approach as we look at the regeneration through the lens of the characters. Bilal, Omz and Joey have been friends for years and the chemistry between the cast makes this even more believable. All three are fantastic in their roles; they bounce off one another, especially during the comical moments (which were plenty!) and a brilliant dance sequence – it’s a joy to watch! Their portrayal as teenagers was spot on too, and I enjoyed the raw emotion they brought to the characters.

With movement choreographed by Gabrielle Nimo, the cast maintains high energy and an impressive display of stamina and football skills. Under Daniel Bailey’s direction, I enjoyed how the show struck the perfect balance between comedy and sincere moments. It was also interesting to hear the character’s varying views about the regeneration of Reedbury Estate. Omz is hopeful the change will be good for his elderly grandad’s access needs, while Joey appears frustrated that the local Morley’s has been replaced with a coffee shop. The show serves a reminder of the social and economic impact of London’s changing landscape.

Photo by Helen Murray

The storytelling is unique, engaging and a great representation of what it means to have a sanctuary and a shared space. The tapping in and out of the pitch was a genius move, highlighting the bond and what Red Pitch means to Omz, Bilal and Joey. 

The one-act play takes us on an emotional journey as we discover the boy’s family life and the pressures they face. The chemistry between the cast was so palpable that it felt tough watching the characters argue and fight. Kev McCurdy directs one of the most intense and realistic fight scenes I’ve ever seen, as the boys scrap on the pitch. In the quieter, emotional moments, particularly in the final scenes, we see just how much the boys mean to one another. It’s a beautiful, and authentic display of friendship.

You can tell a lot of heart has gone into making this production and I appreciate having stories like this in theatre! With a talented cast and creative team, Red Pitch is funny, thought-provoking, empathetic and refreshing story for the West End. I highly recommend going to see this show!

Red Pitch plays at @sohoplace until 4 May 2024!

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REVIEW: Standing at the Sky’s Edge – Gillian Lynne Theatre

🎭 Standing at the Sky’s Edge
📍 Gillian Lynne Theatre
🎟️PR invite
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Following two successful runs in Sheffield and London, and many prestigious awards, Standing at the Sky’s Edge returns to London for a West End run, proving what a remarkable, new musical it is!

Set in a brutalist housing estate in Sheffield, the story spans over 5 decades, focusing on three families who lived in the same flat. Written by Chris Bush, their stories showcase significant moments and changes on the Park Hill estate. In the sixties, we meet newlyweds, Harry and Rose (Joel Harper-Jackson and Rachael Wooding), bursting with optimism and joy as they arrive in their new home, longing to complete their family with a child. In the nineties, we see teenager Joy (Elizabeth Ayodele), a refugee who has fled Liberia with her cousins Grace and George (Sharlene Hector and Baker Mukasa), arriving in Sheffield. In 2015, Poppy (Laura Pitt-Pulford), a Londoner, moves to the regenerated estate, following a breakup with her fiancee.

Photo by Brinkhoff-Moegenburg

All three narratives overlap in this multi-generational story. It is a heartwrenching yet powerful production about hopes and dreams. Sky’s Edge beautifully touches on love, loss and the importance of community. 

Ben Stone’s set design marvellously replicates the brutalist ‘streets in our sky’ architecture of the Park Hill estate. With towering flats, concrete pillars, walkways, and balconies that see the ensemble walk and dance through. There’s an intimacy with the set design, especially as we watch the band perform across two levels of the set. This is further exemplified by the new space at Gillian Lynne Theatre, which sees the ensemble perform in the theatre aisles. The design is complete with the notable, “I love you, will you marry me?” graffiti, a spectacle to look at during the final scenes, against Mark Henderson’s warm orange and yellow-toned lighting. 

Photo by Brinkhoff-Moegenburg

With music from Sheffield singer-songwriter, Richard Hawley, the musical also guides us through the history of Park Hill and its iconic building over the decades. Bush is a gifted playwright; they brilliantly explore the socioeconomic impact on the Park Hill residents over the years including unemployment, anti-social behaviour and the end of social housing. The show also includes immigration, gentrification and politics. There are references to the 2016 EU Referendum and Thatcher’s policies – key moments in the British political landscape that had an impact on people’s livelihoods and society as a whole. 

Photo by Brinkhoff-Moegenburg

This is unlike most ‘jukebox’ musicals and is incredibly unique with how the themes are presented. Under Robert Hastie’s direction, the three timelines are intertwined, and performed simultaneously on stage, with the characters sharing the living space. It’s an ingenious directorial choice which becomes meaningful towards later scenes. Through captivating storytelling and heavenly vocals, the performances from the cast are passionate, and filled with raw emotion that left members of the audience teary-eyed.

Photo by Brinkhoff-Moegenburg

I enjoyed Joy’s storyline and her sweet blossoming relationship with local teen, Jimmy (Samuel Jordan), while Poppy and her ex-girlfriend, Nicky (Lauryn Redding) provided us with plenty of humour. Wooding and Harper-Jackson perform in moving scenes as we watch the breakdown of their marriage, which has devastating consequences. Wooding’s heartbreaking rendition of ‘After the Rain’ was one of my standouts. I also loved the moments from the ensemble cast whenever they led the songs and choreography, further adding to the sense of community that is present throughout the show. 

While I wasn’t familiar with Hawley’s music, the songs complement the story wonderfully. The stunning musical arrangements are packed with emotions ranging from joy to rage, particularly in numbers like ‘The Streets Are Ours’  and the gripping Act 1 finale, ‘There’s A Storm Coming’.

Photo by Brinkhoff-Moegenburg

Often defined as a love letter to Sheffield, Standing at the Sky’s Edge provides a universal experience. Its themes of home, community, resilience and change resonate with many, including myself. Chris Bush, who hails from Sheffield, has crafted a beautiful story that is filled with heart, and authenticity and is an example of a modern musical theatre masterpiece!

Standing at the Sky’s Edge plays at the Gillian Lynne Theatre until Saturday 3rd August 2024

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REVIEW: Shifters – Bush Theatre

🎭 Shifters
📍 Bush Theatre
🎟️ PR invite
⭐⭐⭐⭐

Bush Theatre continue impress with their latest production from Benedict Lombe. 

‘Shifters’ is a beautiful and honest, exploration of young love, memory, and destiny. We meet Destiny and Dream (Heather Agyepong and Tosin Cole), childhood friends who reconnect after years apart. Now, aged 32, Des and Dre are living the dream in their respective careers. But a tragedy brings them together for the first in 8 years, and the memories come flooding back. The play shifts between pivotal moments in Des and Dre’s lives – from the moment they met at 16 in debate class to the challenges they faced in adulthood.

Written by Benedict Lombe, winner of the Susan Smith Blackburn Prize for Playwriting, the play is authentic, and poetic as it delves into the complexities of relationships. I adored how Lombe’s writing acknowledges the vulnerability we exude when it comes to love. Throughout this powerful two-hander, we watch Des and Dre navigate their friendship-turned-relationship, through affecting moments. 

Lombe sensitively incorporates the impact of grief and trauma on Des and Dre’s relationship, but also the heavy burden Des carries in regards to being a Black woman. This was something I and members of the audience audibly agreed on as Des emotionally described how society interacts with Black girls. 

The story makes us question whether the ‘right person, wrong time’ is true and if soulmates do exist (I believe they do!).

Photo by Craig Fuller

Tosin Cole and Heather Agyepong take to the stage with undeniable chemistry. The dialogue between them is pacy, and filled with playful jokes that double up as flirtatious. They banter about African parties, the school’s debate club, and Nigerian vs Congolese music. I found myself smiling numerous times at their exchanges and how real the performances were. My memorable moment was Des tending to Dre’s hair; this simple yet profoundly intimate moment beautifully showed the bond between the pair. That soft, playfulness remains even years after they last met. 

Agyepong’s Des is self-assured and full of sharp wit, while Cole is the epitome of cool, calm and collected, even in moments of sadness. Cole and Agyepong deliver the most captivating performances I’ve seen in a romantic play. Even during quieter moments, their passion speaks volumes. Directed by Lynette Linton, there is a playful energy between our two leads. The non-linear structure flows naturally, revealing layers of Des and Dre’s relationship with each passing year.

Photo by Craig Fuller

Alex Berry transforms the main space with a minimalist traverse staging, while Neil Austin’s stunning lighting illuminates the stage. The lighting is visually striking as we walk into the theatre and throughout the show, these lights effectively capture the shifting timelines in the story. The bold hues of greens and reds during Des and Dre’s youthful years, become dimmer as we move to present-day. I would have loved a solid conclusion to round off the story, but perhaps the ending was meant to be ambiguous.

The show is a powerful reminder of our experiences with long-term connections, and will leave audiences utterly moved. With stellar performances and evocative storytelling, Lombe’s play balances humour and heartbreaking scenes, and altogether is an authentic portrayal of young love. Shifters is another example of Bush Theatre continuing to share new, powerful and diverse stories!

Shifters plays at Bush Theatre until 30 March 2024.

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NEWS: ‘WHY AM I SO SINGLE?’ Toby Marlow & Lucy Moss’ new big fancy musical is heading to the West End.

From the multi-award-winning writers of SIX, Toby Marlow & Lucy Moss, comes their all-new,  highly anticipated second musical, WHY AM I SO SINGLE? This Big Fancy Musical follows two besties through the ups, and mostly downs, of their dating lives in the era of Tinder (and Bumble  and Grindr and Hinge and Feeld). This musical extravaganza about love, dating, friendship – and bees – explores the weird and wonderful hilariousness of being single.  

A celebration of friendship and love, WHY AM I SO SINGLE? asks how two super interesting,  super cool, super fun pals could possibly still be single?!? This extraordinary and totally unexplainable situation faced by our fabulous duo is made even more complicated by the fact that, on a completely unrelated note, they also need to find a really great topic for their next musical.  

Lead casting has been announced.  

Jo Foster (& Juliet; Just For One Day, West End;) will return from the show’s early workshop to  co-star in this epic musical for the ages. They will be seen alongside the newly cast Leesa Tulley

(SIX, UK Tour; Kin, Theatro Technis) as their bff. Together they will navigate the difficult modern  dating world and how to flirt with your Deliveroo driver, all with their best friend firmly by their  side. They are joined on stage by Noah Thomas (Everything Now, Netflix; Everybody’s Talking  About Jamie, West End). The ensemble casting is to be announced.  

Featuring epic pop and musical-inspired songs by the dynamic writing team of Marlow & Moss  (described by British Vogue as the ‘future of musical theatre’), and high-energy choreography by  Ellen Kane (Matilda the Musical, Working Title Films; Dear England, National Theatre/West  End), WHY AM I SO SINGLE? is set to dazzle the dating world this autumn.  

Toby Marlow and Lucy Moss comment, This is ultimately a musical about two friends, their  desire for love, and how they deal with loneliness. We hope people come away feeling super  uplifted. And we hope they text someone the second they leave the theatre saying ‘omigosh just  fyi i love you soooo much!!!!’ 

Box Office Tickets are available from £20 at www.whyamisosingle.com

Running Time: 2 hours 30 minutes (including an interval)
Age Guidance: 14+, contains adult themes and language Access https://thegarricktheatre.co.uk/your-visit/#tab-access 

Accessible Performances:
Saturday 21st September 2024 (Audio Described)
Friday 18th October 2024 (BSL interpreted) 
Saturday 25th January 2025 (Captioned)

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REVIEW: The Boy at the Back of the Class – Rose Theatre

🎭 The Boy at the Back of the Class
📍Rose Theatre
🎟️ PR invite
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Onjali Raúf’’s award-winning children’s novel into a stage adaptation, The Boy at the Back of the Class makes its world premiere with a timely and moving story that resonates deeply.

The story

The story follows the journey of Ahmet, a nine-year-old boy fleeing a war-torn Syria who finds himself in a British school, separated from his parents. Ahmet sits in the empty chair at the back of the Year 5 class. He’s quiet and doesn’t speak fluent English, leaving the other children intrigued to know more about him. They invite Ahmet to play football, share Sherbet Lemon sweets and even write down questions to ask. 

When Ahmet’s classmate, Alexa, overhears some of the parents making rude comments about refugees and rejoicing over the country ‘closing the borders’, she and her friends, Josie, Michael and Tom, embark on a daring mission to reunite Ahmet with his family before times runs out. 

Narrated from the children’s perspective, we go on a funny, unexpected and heartwarming adventure. The Boy at the Back of the Class strikes the right balance between humour and heart and exemplifies the importance of friendship, kindness and hope. 

Photo by Manuel Harlan.

My thoughts

Adapted for the stage by Nick Ahad, The Boy at the Back of the Class is a timely and moving piece of theatre. Its powerful message resonates with audiences of all ages, reminding us of the profound impact of compassion in a world often divided by prejudices. The narrative being told from the nine-year-old’s point of view is a brilliant and engaging style of storytelling. We learn about the struggles Ahmet faced and the attitude towards refugees from his peers, teachers, and even the media. 

Farshid Rokey is strong in the role of Ahmet, as he embodies the apprehensive nature of a child adjusting to a new environment. Sasha Desouza-Willock wonderfully plays Alexa with inquisitiveness and confidence to help Ahmet. She is supported by Josie, Michael and Tom (Petra Joan-Athene, Abdul-Malik Janneh, Gordon Millar) as they prepare for their ‘A-Team’ style mission (ironically to the theme of 007!). 

Photo by Manuel Harlan.

Ryan Day and Giles Thomas’ lighting and sound design are slick and perfectly timed. Although I haven’t read the book, I imagine these creative choices have accurately brought the story to life, elevating this stage production even more. What I enjoyed is how the show encourages us to use our imagination. Monique Touko expertly directs the show, with playfulness and a captivating energy that immerses us in the children’s world. Paired with Kloé Dean’s movement direction, which sees the characters running around, doing roly poly’s and swinging off the set.

Lily Arnold’s set design cleverly mimics local landmarks and everyday British school scenes, creating a sense of familiarity and even nostalgia (the school apparatus!). The versatile set allows for seamless scene transitions too, transporting us from one location to another. I was also impressed with how the production incorporated basic props to elevate and portray certain scenes.

Photo by Manuel Harlan.

Similarly, there are strong performances from the ensemble as they flawlessly transition between characters; from children to parents to market sellers to even the Queen’s Guards. The talented cast performs an array of distinct, hilarious and diverse characters, who all play a part in Ahmet’s journey. While there was some hostility from the bullies at school and bigoted parents, there were also members of the community who showed care and willingness to support. These examples of empathy and solidarity are echoed throughout.

The show highlights the humanity of refugees through the character of Ahmet. His new friends realise they hold shared interests such as football and favourite foods, just like them. Between adventure and humour, lies a beautiful and important story – it’s hard not to get emotional! The determination and courage of the young characters, using their voices to support Ahmet is incredibly inspiring.

Photo by Manuel Harlan.

As part of Rose Theatre’s collaboration with the Children’s Theatre Partnership, the production is a powerful in raising awareness and engaging children in discussions of refugee rights.

The Boy at the Back of the Class encourages us to practice kindness and embrace differences. The show is for audiences of all ages and comes at a time when compassion is needed more than ever. It serves as a necessary reminder that everyone deserves a home. 

The Boy at the Back of the Class plays at Rose Theatre until 22 February 2024 before continuing on tour.

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NEWS: New Cast of ‘For Black Boys Who Have Considered Suicide When The Hue Gets Too Heavy’ announced.

Today, the Royal Court Theatre and Nimax Theatres welcomes six new cast members to the For Black Boys family. Starring in the iconic roles of Onyx, Pitch, Jet, Sable, Obsidian and Midnight are a powerful new blend of talented actors including Tobi King Bakare, Shakeel Haakim making his professional debut, Fela Lufadeju, Albert Magashi, Mohammed Mansaray and Posi Morakinyo respectively.

The brand-new ensemble will be directed by Ryan Calais Cameron. The six will bring their own interpretation and lived experiences to their respective roles, infusing a fresh dynamic and energy to this transformative theatrical experience which uniquely mixes music, movement, storytelling and verse.

Writer Ryan Calais Cameron was inspired by Ntozake Shange’s seminal work For Colored Girls Who Have Considered Suicide / When the Rainbow Is Enuf. For Black Boys Who Have Considered Suicide When The Hue Gets Too Heavy is located on the threshold of joyful fantasy and brutal reality where six men clash and connect in a desperate bid for survival.

About the new cast Ryan Calais Cameron, writer and Nouveau Riche Artistic Director, said:
“The themes explored in the play are timeless, and I am genuinely thrilled about the prospect of witnessing the new cast infuse their own unique energy and brilliance into the production. Each member brings a wealth of talent and dedication to their roles, and I am confident that their interpretation will breathe new life into the narrative.”

You can book tickets to For Black Boys Who Have Considered Suicide When The Hue Gets Too Heavy here.

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REVIEW: Reuben Kaye: The Butch is Back – Southbank Centre

🎭 Reuben Kaye: The Butch is Back
📍Purcell Room, Southbank Centre
🎟️ PR invite
⭐⭐⭐⭐

Reuben Kaye: The Butch is Back at Southbank Centre is a cabaret stand-up comedy extravaganza that takes audiences on a journey through the life of this Australian sensation.

Through a blend of song, adult jokes and witty one-liners, Reuben shares the story of his upbringing as a young queer boy in Melbourne in this comedy performance. We also have an exploration of the nuanced relationships between father and sons. 

Dubbed the Christopher Nolan of Cabaret, we are treated to exciting renditions of popular songs from The Rolling Stones, Geri Halliwell and Stormzy, sung wonderfully by Reuben. The bold use of lighting design creates a captivating atmosphere during the show. Those striking hues of red emphasise Reuben’s statement entrance as enters the stage, in a Marie Antoinette-inspired costume. 

 ‘The Butch is Back’ takes us through various timelines of Reuben’s life. There is a myriad of adult content throughout, and even audience interaction, some of which was improvised and flowed well with the show.  

Photo by Holly Jackson

Reuben’s quick-wit and great comic timing shine throughout Act 1, with fast-paced jokes about British politics and the monarchy. I initially struggled with the lack of linear structure in the first act, while Act 2 felt more cohesive. The show delves into relationships between fathers and sons, portraying Reuben’s journey from childhood to cabaret stardom. Reuben also acknowledges growing up queer and being a drag act.

Backed by a fantastic band led by musical director, Shannon D.Whitelock, the show seamlessly blends jazz, soul, and rock, which I adored. Kaye’s vocals and musical versatility were a standout and I couldn’t wait to hear more! Amidst the adult jokes and occasional audience interaction, I found that the music did incredibly well in enhancing the storytelling.

The show had a good balance between humour and serious moments, particularly in the second act as the show reveals vulnerable moments drawn from Reuben’s personal experiences. The honesty and authenticity displayed by Reuben, particularly in the childhood stories and memories of his father, contribute to a mesmerising performance. 

While I think the show could benefit from being one act, the humour, raw emotion, glamorous outfits and Reuben’s natural stage presence, makes ‘The Butch is Back’ a must-see.

Reuben Kaye: The Butch is Back is playing at Southbank Centre until 30 December 2023!