Leeds Playhouse, Leeds – until 12 October 2019
Reviewed by Aimee Liddington
5*****
Mushy: Lyrically Speaking is based on the real life story of Musharaf Asghar who appeared on our screens in ‘Educating Yorkshire’ back in 2013. Mushy, played by Varun Raj, suffers from a stammer which stops him from fulfilling his potential at school and from finding his voice and his place in the wider world. When he is thrust into the public eye through prime time television, millions of people watch as he finds the ability to speak through rhythm and music. Using rap and lyrical narration, the play delves deeper into Mushy’s personal journey and makes us fall in love with his charming character even more.
The raw talent of Varun Raj, Oliver Longstaff and Medhavi Patel from Rifco Theatre Company is a sight to behold. Longstaff not only moves us emotionally with his portrayal of the passionate but overworked Mr Burton, but also has us in tears of laughter with his take on some of his less prominent roles. Medhavi Patel, who plays Ammi, was so convincing and several members of the audience commented throughout on how similar the character was to their own mother or grandmother. Then last but certainly not least, Varun Raj is so convincing with his depiction of Mushy that I even questioned if he was the real Musharaf Asghar. He was equally as impressive playing the nervous and frustrated Mushy with a debilitating stammer as he was rapping and playing a more comfortable Mushy behind closed doors.
Lastly the creative team deserve a huge congratulations, especially Raxstar, who created the lyrics for the rap and lyrical narration. This aspect of the play makes it more appealing to a younger, modern audience but allows for enjoyment for all ages. The songs are catchy and go perfectly with the choreography created by Kate Webster, the movement director. Mushy: Lyrically Speaking is like nothing I have ever seen before and it has left me wanting to see more.