With confidence it can be assured that I was one of many who walked away from this show truly moved, in fact more than that. Inspired. A beautifully dedicated performance to the true beauty of culture and history was portrayed up on that stage, as eyes were opened to the struggles and prejudice that the black community faced in the 60’s.
The story meets an aspirational family with finance as the root cause of all their problems, son, and father Walter Lee is power hungry and desperate for a change in funds. With his mother, sister, wife, and son all bundled into one home he feels the pressure to provide a better future for his family, although his chances seem slim the long-awaited cheque from his father’s passing is what keeps his hopes alive. Solomon Israel was truly fascinating in his role as Walter Lee, he truly devoted everything into this character, convincing the audience that the narrative existed off stage. You could feel the passion in every sentence and movement, expressing to every individual how much this story means to him and this community.
The story unfolds in a subtle but effective setting, positioning the audience directly into their shared home in the heart of Chicago, their flat isn’t much but its what brings them closer together. As a spectator you experience the troubles and tribulations of existing without stability, money, and power in the shadow of white hierarchy, through the devastation it leaves this family in. Despite the difficulties they face, every scene is elevated with a hint of humour, projecting a loud and clear message that no matter how hard life gets your family are there to lean on. If one thing in life is certain, its that after a heartfelt moment you can always count on sister Beneatha to raise your spirits, the audience was in complete awe of her energy as well as a fit of giggles. Josephine’s performance was more than memorable, especially after her Nigerian inspired dance, her character consistently lit up the room and her next move in every scene was heavily anticipated, she truly captured the essence of this role.
Lorraine Hansberry’s goal for this play to broaden awareness on black freedom, was reached with great dignity throughout this performance. The play is both entertaining and educating, an intense yet truly mesmerising narrative that captures the hearts of all its spectators. The show is promising of reality, it doesn’t attempt to hide the truth or sugar coat real problems, its stands for making a difference and illustrating the difficulties for black communities. This play creates a stimulation of every emotion all at once, there are moments of sadness, but those moments of that proud sensation overpower every feeling. If you want to feel your arm hairs stand as tall as the characters in this play, then this show is for you.
Reviewer: Phoebe Hobson
Reviewed: 18th September 2024
North West End UK Rating: