Writers: Daphna Attias, James Baldwin and Terry O’Donovan
Directors: Daphna Attias and Terry O’Donovan
Reviewer: Christine Stanton
“Captivating & Atmospheric“
4 / 5
~This review was originally written for The Reviews Hub ~
Inspired by true events, Dante or Die’s production is set to be performed in chapels across the UK with an explosively intense story that focuses on the first UK prison-based same-sex marriage between two convicts who are serving time for homophobic murders.
Jay (Dauda Ladejobi) is first introduced on a night out in the local pub with his friends. Catching the eye of another man at the urinals, he excitedly feels a connection between them, but when his friend enters the bathroom, he panics, attacking the other man and drowning him to his death all while shouting homophobic slurs. The heinous hate crime and repulsive language used are naturally uncomfortable to watch and amplify the intensity of the production straight from the outset.
He is sentenced to 15 years, leaving his newborn son and fiancée behind as he serves time for his repugnant act. It is during his served time that he meets fellow prisoner Paul (Graham Mackay Bruce), well established on the wing, he is the go-to for contraband and protection from other inmates, accepting payment through vapes, canteen items or sexual favours. Initially clashing, the pair slowly becomes friendlier, and they soon start to embark on a romantic relationship together, leading to the first same-sex marriage within a UK prison.
The characterisation of the pair would benefit from a little more expansion to strengthen the narrative, although the passing of time is well documented with various references, their connection still jumps from being transactional to genuine quite quickly, so having a few more defining moments in their progression would be a great way to embed their chemistry further.
This is a fantastic show that keeps audience interest throughout. Writers Daphna Attias, James Baldwin and Terry O’Donovan have collaborated well to keep the storyline succinct and engaging. The inclusion of other characters such as the Chaplain (Morgan Archer), Governor (Frank Skully) and bereaved partner Ali (Dean Statham) all of whom also play other prisoners in the ensemble, is necessary to expand the storyline and confront the various prejudices of the characters outside of the relationship. All of the cast are brilliantly talented – especially in the scenes that require the slick, synchronised choreography that is performed to perfection.
At the heart of the production is the incredible Lady Lykez, who plays both girlfriend Kerry and one of the wardens in the prison, but most notably, also performs a variety of songs and raps alongside and in between the scenes. The lyrics and her flow consistently elevate the storyline, the rawness of her well-polished performances adding to the grittiness of the storyline and serves as an interesting, unique addition to the narrative.
Stone Nest is a fantastic space for this atmospheric, impactful production. The sparse, echoing hall adds to the stripped-back, harshness of the storyline, while the simple set comprised of prison beds and strip lighting adds a touch of realism to further connect to the subject matter. A great, unique production that confronts, challenges and captivates throughout.
Runs until 12 May 2024 then continues to tour
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