A Tale of Deep Burning Love
Bush Theatre’s Shifters has its West End opening at the Duke of York Theatre in London directed by Lynette Linton and written by an exciting new writing talent Benedict Lombe. Smart direction from Linton with clever choices around casting and stage direction: this is Shifters second run it feels the same but there are subtle changes, changes which only enhance the power of storytelling, you can see why it has hit the West End with a reasonable length run. ALT sent out our summer graduate intern Jamine Kamagate to write her first review.
Review
Shifters is a play that tugs at your heartstrings, again and again. Themes around grief, abuse, and family trauma push this tale that illustrates the love that can form when individuals from different cultures and classes cross paths in inner city Britain. The story opens with former lovers being reunited by a family tragedy.
British Nigerian Actor, Tosin Cole, entered the stage by storm in a humorous and refreshing monologue. His take on the character of Dre made laughter familiar in the room. His Nana’s passing and his Nigerian heritage were at the forefront of his monologue, giving us a glimpse into his upbringing.
When Des, played by Ghanaian actress, Heather Agyepong joined Dre on stage, she brought to her character reems of vibrancy and quirkiness. It took a moment for Des and Dre to speak, as the first meeting in eight years took them back and caused reflection.
The characterisation of Des and Dre in this duologue is refreshing to see. It is easy for black Brits from either a Congolese or Nigerian heritage to identify with the couple. Colloquium flew from their mouths making the script relatable, but also for a wider audience it is also familiar.
The emerging timelines from high school to adulthood provided context for Des and Dre’s connection. Music was cleverly used to ease the transition of time. What made the play more intriguing to me was the songs from iconic Nigerian duo, P Square and the Congolese ‘king of rumba rock,’ Papa Wemba which underlines the culture and mindset of the setting. As the music flowed, hums were heard from an engaged audience.
Their undeniable chemistry could be felt as the scenes flowed seamlessly, and it was clear that the pair separated over miscommunications and insecurities. They would often mask their pain and doubt with banter, which was amusing from the audience perspective, but added to the strain of their relationship.
As the dialogue’s pace changed from when their feelings were being discussed to when the chit chat was flowing, this change often came with heightened tension and emotions across the stage and indeed the room. Even though they shied away from hard confrontational conversations, Des initiated in making sure their sentiments were on par.
The play closes with Des’s loud and deep breathing as the stage lights turned on one by one. The audience sat in anticipation as to whether Des would choose Dre over her current love interest. I mean why would she when she is with someone else?
Benedict’s writing throws out questions about perceptions of love. What does it mean to be loved? Shifters answers these questions with the help of director Lynette Linton and producers Sonia Friedman Productions, Idris Elba, Maya Jama, Little Simz, Chuchu Nwagu Productions and Eleanor Llyod Productions.
Running time 110 minutes, Shifters at the Duke of York Theatre until 12 October 2024
Tickets from £20.
Book your tickets here!
Review by Jamine Kamagate
Forward and editing ALT A REVIEW.
