Now, I See, Theatre Royal Stratford East Review
Written by Penny for Theatre and Tonic.
Disclaimer: Tickets were gifted in return for an honest review. All views are my own.
Now, I See is a new work from Lanre Malaolu, the second instalment in a trilogy that celebrates the truth of being a Black man in contemporary Britain. Taking its title from the hymn “Amazing Grace” (beautifully performed by Tendai Humphrey Sitima), the story is told through a mix of movement, song, and text, and has themes of identity, brotherhood, forgiveness and healing.
Two brothers meet at their third brother’s funeral. It quickly becomes clear that the two have become estranged and whilst their interactions don’t immediately make the reason clear, the play is a little slow to get started, we learn that it is older brother Kieron who has lost contact with his family. The third brother they are have come together to celebrate and mourn is a constant presence as an observer and also joins in flashbacks as the other two open up and reminisce.
Lanre Malaolu is the writer, director and movement choreographer for the piece and given us a play with a strong and relatable story, excellent pace and a great balance between comedy and dealing with its challenging and emotional themes. He has assembled a fine trio of actors who are in tune with each other physically and mentally, convincing with their interactions whether it’s the present day or a flashback to their childhoods.
The stage has a very simple set, almost a black box, but with lighting and sound design from Ryan Day and Pär Carlsson that gives it depth and also a clear impression that there are other people just out of sight in a next door room.
Most of the dialogue is conversational and very natural – whether the brothers are making awkward small talk, remembering their sibling or finally letting the anger and emotion out, it’s surprisingly funny for a play that tackles such difficult themes. When the brothers are in more reflective mode the language becomes more poetic for monologues that let us see what’s really going on under the surface.
Dialogue segues into beautifully choreographed movement that serves to rebuild family bonds. A lot of the comedy comes from the childhood flashbacks – referencing everything from Usher to Power Rangers, Coming to America to The Little Mermaid, with a rendition of “Under the Sea” hilariously out of place at what is such a solemn occasion! This light relief serves to break the tension as well as reinforce forgotten family bonds.
As Kieron, Oliver Alvin-Wilson has a powerful stage presence and expertly plays a character full of pent-up anger, resentment and guilt. As the play progresses we learn that Kieron felt neglected by the family because of the focus on his brother’s health condition and Alvin-Wilson perfectly conveys the complex emotions that are weighing him down.
Nnabiko Ejimofor plays the younger Dayo, he initially appears to be less affected than his older brother, portraying a rather naïve character who hasn’t settled down into family life or a career, his movement is much lighter and he seems “fine” on the surface, but as we get to know him better, he very clearly shows the pressure of being the go-between and the pressure he experiences trying to keep on top of his emotions around his fractured family. The trio all move brilliantly but Ejimofor’s dance, incorporating contemporary and hip hop moves, is outstanding.
As Adeyeye, Tendai Humphrey Stima has less dialogue than the other brothers but is still a vital presence on the stage. Through his movement and facial expressions we see the physical pain he experienced living with his sickle cell disease, but also the anguish at not being able to join in with his brothers. Despite all this, he somehow radiates optimism, helping to stress the huge loss his death has been to those left behind. My eyes were constantly drawn to him, his comparative silence spoke volumes.
Now, I See is a beautifully structured piece of writing, brought to the stage by an extremely talented company. Its themes are universal and the raw emotion played out on stage builds and builds towards understanding and healing.
Now, I See runs at the Theatre Royal, Stratford East until 1st June 2024.
☆ ☆ ☆ ☆