Leeds Playhouse – until Saturday 7 October 2023
Reviewed by Dawn Smallwood
5*****
A powerful and down to earth production addressing seriously the issues that fundamentally affect many and their livelihoods in society today. I,Daniel Blake, based on Paul Laverty’s screenplay and Ken Loach’s multi-award-winning film, comes to the Leeds Playhouse as part of the UK Tour. The stage co-production is adapted by Dave Johns, who played the role in the 2016 film, and is directed by Mark Calvert.
I, Daniel Blake is about the stories of Daniel (David Nellist) and Katie (Bryony Corrigan) who are facing circumstantial hardships that financially impact their lives. Their hardships are not met with the current social security system and its bureaucracies. Daniel and Katie share their stories that raises awareness of what many people face today particularly the cost-of-living crisis and the gig work economy.
The story of the stage adaptation has been updated since the film to reflect the worsening situation and the severity of the hardships many more face now than in 2016. It is relevant, logical and is beautifully and poignantly told by Daniel and Kate whose solidarity and companionship combine with kindness, hope and humour supporting their plights of what seems to be never-ending challenges.
It is entertaining and yet compelling with questions, anger and frustration as to why in reality many have to face what Daniel and Katie face. The characters may be fictional, but their stories and its themes certainly are not! It is an awakening call to all in society today and this well thought out production successfully calls this.
First class portrayals of Daniel by Nellist and Katie by Corrigan. They successfully project the characters and their stories. Both performers are supported by a strong and talented cast; notably Kema Sikazwe who plays China, and he played the same role in the 2016 film. The staging, designed by Rhys Jarman, is functional and is adapted creatively to stage each scenario. The stage works well with Simisola Majekodunmi’s lighting and Roma Yagnik’s soundscapes.
It is a relevant play for all to see what life is really like for the many in modern Britain and how the current social security system is not working to support the essentials for those who need it. To reiterate it is an awakening not another awareness of an existential issue which continues to be intensified.
From 2016 to the present time food banks have dramatically increased along with the hygiene bank and other community driven emergency support networks. It can be hoped that the proposed Essential Guarantee can be introduced and implemented socially and politically to make the crucial differences.
The stories told in I Daniel Blake can be anyone is with any change of circumstances.