Olu- Pleasance, Islington

Olu written by Ese Ighorae  is a tale about cultural belonging, power struggles and the strive for a more prosperous life in western society. The stage was graced with colourful, dominant African characters, fancy vibrant colours and fantastic choreography. In truth, it is the first piece of black theatre that I have seen and living amongst this ethnic group in South London was an apt fit for a peak into community life.

Olu tells the story of a young Nigerian girl who has experienced life in a Nigerian boarding school, and then has to re-integrate back into African life, awash with such trouble and strife. Olu feels disconnected to her homeland, her parents and tries to rebel against old school values that she feels now are an alien concept to her.

The production will have struck a chord with many international students who decamp from overseas and re-root themselves into a foreign education system, without any depth of knowledge on the culture, language or social etiquette. Olu conveyed a young naïve girl’s journey trying to fit into the Nigerian in crowd, whilst also trying desperately to seek her parents approval. The accents excelled with accents, and cultural physicality. Olu’s mother played by Miranda Shamiso adopted multi character parts including student, dancer, and many more with great conviction. The beginning was a light comic reference to a rebellious teenager who stamps her feet when she doesn't get her own way, whilst the second half of the production focused more on systems of power, and corruption which varied between subtle hints of wannabe powers and actual powers that by that destroy communities. 

The play seemed to last a lot more than the advertised 70 minutes, and there was a clear difference in rhythm and energy between the two parts of the production. The first half was significantly more engaging than the second, as when events turned more political and heavy, I must admit I did start to turn off slightly. There was certainly a tale to be told from each character, whether it was a student, teacher, parent or the school caretaker. Ighorae managed to script a play of grand importance, and reveal themes that are all too close to one’s heart in today’s political climate. Ighorae brought out clear strength of character in her female roles, perhaps signalling the need for a more inclusive and equal society. 

Olu brought fresh truths out of the piece, and the political relevance was perhaps the most significant theme that resonated throughout which was strengthened by unhealthy doses of  patriarchy and power conveyed through Olu's father. Whilst I am not well versed on Nigerian culture, the very fact that is was told through the eyes of African actors was a home truth in its own right.

Next week: I will be on holiday 3-17 July.