It's time for my review of J'Ouvert.
"2017. Carnival is here. The streets of Notting Hill are alive with history and amidst the soca, sequins, and endless feathers, Jade and Nadine are fighting for space in a world that should be theirs. A timely echo of Caribbean resistance across centuries, J’OUVERT is a joyful and fearless story of two best friends, battling to preserve tradition in a society where women’s bodies are frequently under threat."
J'ouvert, written by up-and-coming playwright Yasmin Joseph, seeks to tackle a wide variety of different issues facing modern-day Britain, confronting matters that are both important and very relevant. This includes topics such as race, gender, sexual harassment, class, as well as identity in general. No matter what one's background is, each and every individual is likely to relate with at least one of the themes featured within the play. The show is certainly thought-provoking, and it's important to raise awareness for these types of subject matters. My one and only qualm with the writing is that I did feel that it could have been more nuanced at points. The messaging was perhaps too obvious at times, meaning that the play would likely have benefitted from more subtlety. Having said that, it's still an intriguing narrative, and I thoroughly enjoyed watching the story unfold.
The four-person cast are excellent, and are an utter delight to watch. They are, without a shadow of a doubt, the overall highlight of the entire production. The two leads in particular, Gabrielle Brooks as Nadine and Sapphire Joy as Jade, were outstanding. They had such good chemistry, and it was easy to believe that they had been life-long best friends. Brooks and Joy bounce off of each other well, and compliment one another's talents. The show requires them to portray a variety of different characters too, and they often have to alternate between these personalities within mere moments. They excelled at this, demonstrating the extent of their versatility. Annice Boparai, as Nisha, and Zuyane Russell as DJ, were also remarkable, with the pair of them delivering maximum energy levels throughout. It was a stellar cast, and they cannot be faulted in any way, shape or form.
The scenic and costume designs were magnificent, with both having been done by Sandra Falase in collaboration with Chloe Lamford. Both the set and the costumes are extraordinarily colourful and do a superb job at conveying the atmosphere of a carnival. They are extremely vibrant, and do an excellent job at capturing the audience's attention. The designs really helped the play come to life, and made it far easier to engross ourselves in the world of the characters.
Now for my final verdict on J'Ouvert! I give J'Ouvert...
J'Ouvert features an incredible cast of skilled performers, and their talent is limitless. Beyond that, there are some incredible designs, all of which make for a brilliant production.
Think it should have got a higher rating? Agree with my rating? Think it should have got a lower rating? If so comment below.
Thanks for reading!
-The Basic Theatre Reviewer
