Barons Court Theatre – until 1st February 2025
Reviewed by Heather Chalkley
5*****
Another exceptional piece of modern play writing by Aaron Thakar. He has the ability to take real and relevant situations and twist them to show the underbelly of human nature. This four part reflection on sex, money, politics and religion intertwine, to take you to an uncomfortable place that questions your own morals and ethics or at least those of the society that we live in today.
Each part explores the abuse of power by people and how that can quickly dissipate. In part one, the vulnerability of Fraser (Fraser Kelsey) is so well expressed by Kelsey you are left in no doubt it is real. The well played interaction with Sam (Harry Jarvis), the lighting box technician, so innocent to begin with, draws you in until the questions become more intense and demanding. You feel present and want to warn Fraser (Kelsey)!
The twists and turns in the radio broadcast in part two, sends your mind into a spin, as you see the different perspectives, particularly at the end. The interaction between Rick (Paul Giddings) the DJ and Julia (Ella Jarvis) the radio guest, feels like you are sitting in on a podcast – you can be forgiven for forgetting you are watching a play!
The very real situation of Khalil (Demi Idowu) the disconnected electorate in part three, struggling with mental health and wanting to be heard, can be recognised by many people in this country. Accentuated by the extreme lengths he goes to, it does not feel so extreme in today’s political climate. Idowu delivers a strong performance.
The final part goes deep into the hearts of those who live with fear, who carry prejudice, those with the power to create ugliness. You are given a glimpse into a world most of us shy away from, delivered by the playwright himself, Thakar as Hassan. Sasha Jagsi (Nazia) gives a commanding performance as his sister.
This is a not to be missed, an intense, compelling play that has many shades and levels. I will be thinking about the questions it throws up for a long time. Thakar is an inspiration and I look forward to seeing what he does next.