Following its huge success at the Bush Theatre earlier this year, ‘Shifters’, written by Benedict Lombe and directed by Lynette Linton, encapsulates the complexity of love and heartbreak as it tells the story of Des (Heather Agyepong) and Dre (Tosin Cole), as they explore their dynamic as friends and lovers.
A late arrival to Dre’s nan’s funeral reunites the two childhood friends after eight years apart. This awkward reunion rekindles a flame that never truly burnt out and memories of their youth spiral back during the countdown to Des’ departure. Benedict Lombe portrays a beautiful depiction of young black love, from the playful dispute of Congolese versus Nigerian musical genres to the validation of vulnerability at their moments of loss and pain.
Heather Agyepong and Tosin Cole express the tenderness of black love, both its passion and complexity. They demonstrate raw emotions and allow us to understand the feelings of Dre and Des physically and spiritually. From the subtle reactions to the deep emotions, they were able to immerse themselves and the audience into the story of Dre and Des whilst perfectly portraying a relatable relationship.
Dre is introduced as an individual who radiates positivity, confidence, and enthusiasm throughout his school years until the sudden and repeated departures of Des leaves him desolate and rebuilding his life that has found part of it missing. Des, however, is level-headed and strong-minded with a keen interest in following her passion despite that passion leading her away from her love.
Des is the perfect embodiment of young black girls who struggle to express their emotions in a society that has normalised them being internal. This story redefines romance and confronts the raw emotions of pain and sadness that are so universal.
“This story redefines romance and confronts the raw emotions of pain and sadness that are so universal”.
The creative direction was innovative yet minimal. Through sound designer Tony Gayle and music composer Xana, sound and music is subtle but oh-so effective, and the soundtrack is the perfect accompaniment – with the audience singing and humming along to create a fantastic atmosphere. There was a clear focus on the actors which was evident through the dimly lit stage and cascading lights that ever so often flickered when Dre and Des were separated.
Lighting designer Neil Austin brilliantly summarises the happiness they bring into each other’s lives, complemented by Alex Berry whose design simply featured a few boxes on a dark stage that was framed by light fixtures, followed a minimalistic approach to hide props such as wine glasses and items from their past. This creative use of the space added depth to the actors and ensured their chemistry and interactions were isolated and the sole focus for the audience.
Besides the impeccable acting, Shifters created a vital message, that it is incredibly important that black stories are being shown and expressed and can demonstrate our experiences, intricacy, and beauty. It allows more people to be inspired and express their love without bounds and regret. It is authentic and relatable to display a romance story that is not easy-going and simple, it allows real lessons to be taught on the realness of love, life, and loss.
The play was incredible and allows you to feel everything at once. The acting was first-class and authentic, the directing was excellent, and the story was unique and delineated our real emotions.
Need to know: Shifters plays at the Duke of York’s Theatre until 12 October 2024.
Related links
- Bush Theatre review of Shifters
- Idris Elba, Maya Jama and Little Simz announced as new producers on West End Play Shifters
