After having watched Little Baby Jesus at the Oval House Theatre, The Prompt is not surprised that the play has earned much critical acclaim. The Play was this week’s Critic’s Choice in Time Out, it earnt an Off West End Award nomination for both Akemnji Ndifernyen in 'best actor' and Arinze Kene in 'best new play': and the piece is certainly justly praised!
The plot centers around three inner-city school teenagers who through narrative monologue relay the story of their defining moments in becoming an adult. Certainly the idea of extended monologues may bore a modern audience, however the writing never allows for a dull moment. The play is packed with humor, with it’s balance of touching and assertive moments. The text allows for some clever character work as the three individuals act out each other’s stories:- visually allowing for action and movement on stage. There were clearly elements of play used in rehearsal, which certainly contributes to the energy sustained in the performance.
The Oral tradition of Nigeria’s rich tribal history is cleverly evoked by Arinze Kene giving the language a modern urban spin using colloqialisms and phrases of inner city language, such as “Fam” or The Prompt's new favorite saying “Real Talk”.
The play follows Kehinde, Jodie and Rugrat on their journey through London and beyond. Arinze told The Prompt, after the show, that part of the inspiration for the piece came from a pilgrimage he took himself aged 14 and that many of the characters themselves are inspired by people he knew when he was growing up.
The actors themselves when scanning the program have a wealth of experience between them, and The Prompt was not surprised when Arinze described them as ‘The Dream Team’.
The production was first class. The Prompt would highly recommend going to see the play especially as on can go to see it for only £7. This type of theatre reaffirms The Prompt’s motion that one can pay £60 for a mediocre ticket in the West End, or you can sit one row back in the Oval House theatre and enjoy a stripped-back, incredible production for next to nothing. Please, if you have a chance, go along to this production and you will not be disappointed.
Little Baby Jesus runs until Wednesday 15th June and you can book tickets here:
http://www.ovalhouse.com/cn/event_details.php?sectionid=theatre&eventid=475&searchid=current
**** (4 stars issued by Mr. T. Prompt)
**** (4 stars issued by Mr. T. Prompt)
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