Courage, creativity and black excellence…Likkle, but Talawa! Rating
Good
‘Talawa’ (or ‘tallawah’) is a Jamaican Patois term for being feisty and courageous, often reflected in the quote from Shakespeare’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream where Helena exclaims “And though she be but little, she is fierce”. Such is the heritage bestowed upon the Talawa Theatre Company by their founders Mona Hammond, Carmen Munroe, Inigo Espejel, and the late Yvonne Brewster OBE.
Talawa Iconic: 40 Year Anniversary Showcase was a fundraising event to highlight 40 years of the indomitable spirit of Brewster that lives on in each of its many alumni and staff. Whilst this event marked four decades, it was an unashamed celebration of the woman herself, the moments witnessed, the words that inspired and supported the many stars that have grown through Talawa’s commitment to raising the visibility of People of Colour in theatre, here in the UK. Whilst celebrating Brewster’s influence and energy, the sense of family, of community and courage, prevailed through every speaker, each musical note, and supple dancer.
Such a variety of acts and speeches proved a complex juggling act; the event unsurprisingly hampered by timing issues, some faltering in acts, set changes, stage management moving in the wings during performances and occasional synchronicity issues between sound and video presentations. Nevertheless, this was a memorable event for numerous reasons.
The cast list was a testament to the many contributors to this event, the stories they shared and the excerpts that they presented. Whilst impossible to review entirely, there were some memorable moments that bear highlighting further.
Josette Bushell-Mingo OBE opened the evening, acapella, with ‘” was born by the river …” (opening lyrics from Sam Cooke’s ‘A Change is Gonna Come’). Electrifying the audience with her beautiful voice, she spoke compellingly of the need for uplifting Black excellence through determination and courage…through Talawa.
Theresa Ikoko, lauded writer of WAHALA and Girls, spoke with vulnerability about how Talawa has supported, guided and celebrated her. The incredible Jamie Musora was captivating as she delivered an excerpt from Girls with vivacity and audacious transitions between characters, embodying the spirit and excellence of this Black British theatre company.
A change of pace followed as we heard from Talawa Alumni, notably Khai Shaw, humbly acknowledging his growth as both an actor and a writer, and Nonzo Anozi, recalling the challenges of wanting to be an actor when family and careers advisor both think it’s a waste of time. Without Talawa we would have missed this fine actor, and many others completely.
Paulette Randall and Patricia Cumper shared moving testimony of shared camaraderie and their yearning loss of Yvonne Brewster. Gone but never forgotten, she lives on in every fibre of success, past and future.
Laurence Ubong Williams (partly on book) with David Webber, delivered a thoughtful piece from A Place for We. It poignantly highlighted the complexity encountered by those of diverse heritage, born both abroad and here in the UK, yet not belonging anywhere.
Our evening closed with the irrepressible voice of Lifford Shillingford, his soulful jazz vocals and huge enthusiasm palpable throughout the theatre.
Across the evening, the sentiments and emotions were enhanced by the excellent BSL interpreters who brought additional depth and perception to each act.
Yvonne Brewster’s energy and commitment to excellence is contagious; evident in every individual who represents Talawa’s ongoing success. Their call for funding and future support is essential to continue this passionate legacy, remembering “Talent is everywhere, but opportunity isn’t.”
Directed by Michael Buffong
Talawa Iconic: 40 Year Anniversary Showcase was a one-off event. You can learn more about Talawa Theatre and its exciting work below.
