My Brother’s Keeper Review

Theatre503 Battersea – until 4th March 2023

Reviewed by Carol Crann

5*****

A stark set greeted us as we walked into this intimate theatre… Walls that appeared to have been cut from rock, and a few plants in the corners were all that were on show – aside from a slightly raise circular platform in the centre which would serve as a focal point throughout.

The lighting was minimal; fluorescent tubes above each actor that changed colour and were used to emphasise some aspects of the play. A set of lights framed the stage as the only other means of illumination.

The story starts at a bus stop in the seaside town of Margate, where two Nigerian brothers, Aman (Tapiwa Mugweni) and his older brother Hassan (Tito Williams), are waiting. Margate is their new home, as designated by the Home Office.

The difference between the brothers is apparent from the onset. Hassan appears older than his 21 years as he talks about the relationship between the two of them, his promise to his mother, and the responsibility he feels to look after his younger brother. Aman, meanwhile, still has the impetuousness of youth and views the world through much more self-absorbed eyes. 

We are then introduced to three of the residents of this seaside town; Bill Bradley, a struggling hotelier played by Philip Wright, as well as his son Aidan (Oscar Adams) – who is clearly dealing with his own demons. You also meet Bill’s long-term friend, Linton (Peter Eastland), who wastes no time in displaying his outdated and racist viewpoints.

This play is not an easy watch as it tackles and explores many aspects of everyday people; their prejudices and pre-conceived opinions on immigration, politics, racism, and sexuality.

Characters are brought to life by all of the performers, but those playing the younger generation in particular manage to showcase the real dynamics in their relationships with others. The performances had the audience – which notably displayed the wonderful diversity of this country – gasping in shock and indignation one minute, and the next laughing at the absurdity of some of the situations and retorts from the characters.

Awkward relationships start to develop as mutual interests are discovered, only to then be threatened by other people’s opinions and views. 

This was a real insight into a society where many still feel so vulnerable whilst trying to make their way in a world which is always too ready to see the perceived shortcomings in people. Throughout the performance I felt myself clinging to my belief that attitudes would change, only to see those hopes dashed by another unfounded or inciteful comment.

I would highly recommend a visit to Theatre503 to watch this performance of My Brother’s Keeper. Mahad Ali has written and co-produced an incredibly thought-provoking play, which offers rollercoaster of emotions throughout. At times it makes for uncomfortable viewing as it holds a mirror up to the world we live in, but the perspectives offered make it worth the emotional investment.