Play On, Talawa Theatre Company Review

Play On production image. Photo by Ellie Kurttz

Written by Emmie for Theatre and Tonic

Disclaimer: Gifted tickets in return for an honest review. All opinions are our own

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A musical which reimagines Shakespeare’s Twelfth Night in the vibrant jazz era of 1940s New York is an interesting concept. Play On, presented by Talawa Theatre Company is an organisation that has been breaking down barriers and providing opportunities for Black artists throughout the UK for 35 years. With a record of more than 50 touring productions, they are taking Play On on a UK tour until January 2025.

The Broadway production Play On had a brief two-month run in 1997 but garnered considerable attention, earning three Tony Award nominations. Conceived by Sheldon Epps and featuring a book by Cheryl L. West, the show blends Duke Ellington’s electrifying music with dynamic street dance choreography, creating a timeless, toe-tapping extravaganza for audiences to enjoy.

Play On follows Viola (Tsemaye Bob-Egbe), a young woman who is encouraged by her uncle Jester (Llewellyn Jamal) to disguise herself as a man to chase her musical dreams in New York's lively jazz scene. Viola dons a sharp suit and becomes ‘Vy-Man’ before seeking guidance from Duke (Early Gregory), one of the greatest writers in Harlem. Duke is trying to win back the heart of Lady Liv (Koko Alexandra), a glamourous key figure in the jazz world. She becomes romantically entangled with ‘Vy-Man’ unaware of what lies beneath the disguise and its Rev (Cameron Bernard Jones) who is trying to gain her attention. A collection of mistaken identities and romantic complications, there are a lot of side plots which help to create the overall flow of Play On.

Directed by Michael Buffong, Play On bursts onto the stage with style, vividly capturing the jazz era through its simplistic set design, costumes, and enchanting music that fills the auditorium. Performed beautifully by a small live band who are heavily incorporated into the show, the musical incorporates an abundance of songs which felt like it detracted from, rather than enhanced, the storyline, leaving you feeling a bit underwhelmed over the finished product.

The main thread that really enables Play On to shine is the vocal talent within this cast. Priding themselves on work which shines a spotlight on the best and most exciting emerging and established Black artists, the leading cast certainly fits the bill. Tsemaye Bob-Egbe, Cameron Bernard Jones and Koko Alexandra deliver the performances of the night. They make it seem effortless and give jaw-dropping delivery, often receiving huge applause from the audience. 

For me, the show fell short in the choreography, as the dance numbers felt unpolished, and the narrative lacked a more cohesive conclusion. As a result, it struggled to hold my full attention throughout the performance. Play On is a promising piece of theatre, delivering a vibrant fusion of timeless jazz music and captivating performances that leave a spring in your step. But whilst it offers a fresh and spirited take on Shakespeare’s Twelfth Night, it left me feeling a bit underwhelmed. 

On a UK tour until January 2025.

★ ★ ★