Orange tree Theatre’s new show ‘Two Billion Beats’ follows two sisters who meet at the bus stop. Both tackling their secondary school experience in very different ways. Asha, the older sister and arguably the smartest in the school is inspired by the revolutionary figures of the past. Bettina, the younger is tackling a revolution of her own, against her bullies on the bus. We meet them at the bus stop, detention and the park as Bettina does her best to avoid being by herself but one day, she asks Asha for help and as their political beliefs and the cause and effect begins to unravel, we question the damage of our actions.
Safiyya Ingar and Anoushka Chadha beautifully portray the sisters with such depth and humour, pushing each other’s buttons with rage and burning sisterly love. Their performance was energetic and gripping.
Director, Nimmo Ismail created a fantastic piece that collaborated perfectly with; Sound Designer-Tingying Dong, Lighting Designer- Alex Fernandes and Movement- Chi-San Howard that pushed outside the walls of the stage and created such a clear picture of their whole world.
This story, written by Sonali Bhattacharyya and has asked us to question ourselves, question each other and not only to have the bravery to stand up for what you believe but stand up for those who can’t.
Playing until the 5th March, further information and tickets can be found at https://orangetreetheatre.co.uk/whats-on/two-billion-beats/book
Reviewer: Alice Rose
Reviewed: 9th February 2022
North West End UK Rating: ★★★★