“there is a sense of joy and playfulness to the whole production”
When Teacher tells a young Baba Segi that “two women at home are better than ten in a bush”, Baba Segi knows what he has to do. Now, Baba Segi is a wealthy man with four wives and seven children by his first three wives. But when his fourth wife, university educated Bolanle, refuses to take herbal remedies to cure her barrenness, he is forced to take her to the hospital, a visit which uncovers the secret underpinning his household. Based on Lola Shoneyin’s debut novel and adapted by Rotimi Babatunde, this is a colourful, joyful and moving story directed by Femi Elufowoju Jr, set amidst the sexual and family politics of contemporary Nigeria.
Patrice Naiambana as Baba Segi is charismatic and likeable, a dominating patriarch but one characterised by an infectious warmth that ensures his downfall is touching, rather than laughable. His four wives played by Marcy Dolapo, Layo-Christina Akinlude, Christina Oshunniyi and Jumoké Fashola are fantastic, each individually characterised, collective and unique in their performances. Diana Yekinni’s performance is also standout, deftly funny and highly effective. This is all round a strong cast, both individually and as an ensemble.
Wonderful moments of visual comedy have me nearly laughing out of my seat, and there is a sense of joy and playfulness to the whole production. Sex is discussed bluntly and brazenly with fantastic comic effect. The piece touches on some very serious issues too – abortion and rape are discussed in tandem in an intensely moving moment of the play. The hierarchy of wives within a household is also examined with disastrous consequences. The music and dancing that punctuate the evening make the piece come alive and create a fantastic energy throughout the theatre.
This is an incredibly enjoyable piece of theatre that also has vital things to say about contemporary polygamy in Nigeria, and a woman’s role within the household. It is well-crafted, well-executed by a strong cast, and not to be missed.
“the company embody the lighthearted foolishness that makes the play what it is”
With it’s subtle political jokes (a ‘stags for remain banner’ clearly shown) and modern dance pieces entwined with classic Shakespearean text, it feels like this performance was designed to try and draw in newbies to the classics. Despite this, Shared Experiences’ production of what has been shown to be an audience favourite of The Bard, has proven to humour a Shakespeare aficionado.
You’d think with an alumni of Vanessa Redgrave and Helen Mirren (to name a few) starring as Rosalind, a young actor would be quaking in their boots to take on such a role. But, Jessica Hayles takes it in her stride providing a refreshing new take on the character. Layo-Christina Akinlude shines as her cousin Celia when they move to the mythical Forest of Arden, after fleeing persecution in her uncle’s court (now portrayed as some kind of political office). Libby Watson’s design for Arden comprises of a desolate stage with white walls and floors reminiscent of a cell, tinged with artificial hues of hot pink and green (lighting by Chris Davey) that remind me more of neon raves rather than a quaint and tranquil haven. Furthermore, the only other indication that this is a forest is one lone, artificial, barren tree which wobbles as the actors climb up it. Poorly placed projections add nothing to the set or the story.
The actors more than make up for what the set lacks. On top of the two heroines’ stand out performances, Nathan Hamilton sets the stage as an angsty teen version of Orlando, the main love interest who progresses to a love stricken outcast from the office/court while Matthew Darcy shines as, among other characters, the pantomime Audrey.
This play feels like it was aimed at a younger audience. One who would appreciate the selfies and Glastonbury feel to the camp in Arden. Despite this, it appeals to everyone, regardless of whether you like Shakespeare or not. It’s fun and funny to watch and you’ll catch yourself empathising with the characters of this centuries old, yet timeless, play. Directed gaily by Kate Saxon, the company embody the lighthearted foolishness that makes the play what it is; a playful romp through one of the early examples of a romantic comedy.
Reviewed by Ciara Loane
Photography by Keith Pattison
AS YOU LIKE IT
is at the Richmond Theatre until 11th November then touring until 2nd December
