I first met Tobi King Bakare after his sharp portrayal of ‘Razer’ in the National Youth Theatre production of Gone Too Far we were in a bar near Stratford East Theatre and all the actors had spilt in there afterwards to celebrate their fantastic first performance.
Tobi was telling me all about the stuff he’d done and how he really wanted to do a one-man show and it stuck in my mind. I was impressed by this talented and ambitious young man. Fast forward just a year on and he’s not only landed a role in ‘For Black Boys’ here he is starring in Before I Go, his self-written solo show directed by Philip J Morris.
Before I Go tells the story of Ajani (Tobi King), who is preparing a barbeque for the Mandem and appears to inadvertently blow himself up. He finds himself not dead but in a state of limbo. There is a voice ‘messenger’ that gives him an ultimatum letting him know that if he does not learn to communicate properly, he could be stuck there forever.
With the accompaniment of a live drummer (Nathan Griffith) and saxophonist (Taurean Antoine-Chagar) Ajani embarks on this journey of communication with his loved ones tackling those important and difficult conversations that he should’ve- could’ve had, using a slick mix of powerful prose, poetry and song.
It really does speak to the Mandem, palpably inviting them to share and express their innermost emotions and feelings despite the many barriers placed in their way. It captures so many elements of black working-class life and touches on racism and oppression with a healthy dose of comedy thrown in. At just an hour long, it’s just right. Go see it, it’s very good. King delivers an amazing performance, and this production does a great job in showcasing his talents – I for one, am keeping my eye on this guy, and I can’t wait to see what he does next.
Need to know: Before I Go plays at Brixton House until Saturday 27 July 2024. Find out more.
