Split into two parts of a spoken word showcase and a short theatre performance, Broken English tries to uncover the journey of English Language. The poetry throughout the showcase and the drama performance was incredible. The first half having the creator, Jahmar Ngozi, joined by three other poets who had beautiful and different poems ranging from heart break, children and a masterpiece using the alphabet.
The actors have amazing, natural chemistry and there is a great use of the stage throughout.
After a small intermission the drama piece began, starting in Southern America and moving to England it was a slightly inaccurate take on history. Rosie-May Jones taking on the part of language, reciting poetry throughout as Sam Burnard and Jake Bryan-Amaning were in tableau in the background.
Jones’ performance was captivating. Balancing both humour and drama quite well, unfortunately I wasn’t invested in the story or the characters. Perhaps because the story was quite difficult to follow or that the characters didn’t give time to establish themselves with short bursts on stage.
Broken English is a creative piece worth seeing, weaving in different parts of culture and language.
Broken English is a creative piece worth seeing, weaving in different parts of culture and language. The actors have amazing, natural chemistry and there is a great use of the stage throughout. The concept was brilliant and only just scratched the surface of where it could go being a small independent production. It was amazing to see a diverse cast and more diverse audience, which was accomplished by Ngozi, so hopefully there will be more productions like this in the future.
