Dancer, Choreographer and Director Adam Haigh admires two plays about entertainers who faced racism with courage.
MA RAINEY’S BLACK BOTTOM at The National Theatre. ★★★★
It's quite extraordinary to see such a chilling storyline presented in such a disarmingly delightful way.
Inspired by the blues icon that was Madame Rainey, this spectacle reminisces on life's difficult lessons, values and experiences that captivate you into a world of the pre black American culture.
Despite addressing controversial issues in moments of 'pin dropping' intensity, writer August Wilson still manages to inject some delicate humour with some well delivered one liners.
The cold, open rigged construction framework scenery brings a rawness to the wonderful Lyttelton Theatre, a hugely vast space that would be a gift for any actor.
The whole cast is brilliant but especially Sharon D Clarke as the dynamic and demanding Ma Rainey and O-T Fagbenle as the insecure and irresponsible Levee.
This is going to be a massive hit for the National Theatre so book your tickets now!
RED VELVET at the Garrick Theatre ★★★★
This production of a new text by upcoming playwright Lolita Chakrabarti is a visually bold, courageous and cleverly crafted piece of drama with pace, high production values, sharp acting and beautifully choreographed scene transitions.
It’s based on the 1800s tale of the brave Ira Aldridge who took over the role of Othello in London's Covent Garden. Despite his natural black heritage, he continued to fight for his empowerment and freedom of speech in times of political exploitation, colonial debate and the injustice of race and equality.
The piece is extremely articulate employing well executed visual comedy, wit and periodic authenticity. It's a well crafted emotional journey of emotions underpinned with ambient music and beautiful lighting.
Stand out performances include Charlotte Lucas as the exuberant actress, Miss Ellen Tree and the wonderfully talented Emun Elliot as a passionate and energetic Mr Pierre Laport.
A definite must see from the Garrick's Theatre’s collaboration with the Kenneth Branagh Theatre Company. An exhilarating piece of theatre that will leave you hungry for more.
As usual Crazy Coqs, the West End’s swankiest cocktail bar and cabaret lounge, is home to some very enticing shows this February when you can see the cream of New York and Broadway talent singing, up close and personal, on their tiny stage.