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‘Yellowman’, written by Dael Orlandersmith, was first performed in London in 2004. Eighteen years later, Diane Page has brought this intense piece of work back on its feet, and created a very emotive, tender, and thought-provoking production.
The play follows the relationship between Alma (Nadine Higgin), a black woman whom is considered poor and from the ‘wrong side of the tracks’ and Eugene (Aaron Anthony), a lighter-skinned man with a more privileged and wealthy upbringing. Both these characters experience racism and classicism within their community and society. It explores the prejudices experienced in the lives of those living in the poorest parts of South Carolina in the 1970s. This play also projects how these issues are rooted in the world at large.
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Orlandersmiths’ writing is a first-class example of the way in which comedy and hard topics can integrate and create quality material. Both Higgin and Anthony really lend themselves to the subtle humour in the text, especially when playing their character's younger selves. Even though it’s a piece performed by two actors, the distinction between all the different characters they play is very clear and easy to follow as an audience. The use of voice and accents is very impressive. A special mention to Aundrea Fudge (Dialect Coach): her work on the South Carolina accent and dialect is crucial in this piece as the different voices and vocabulary is necessary in distinguishing the character's different classes.
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For any theatre-goer who is looking to be mentally challenged and stimulated, then this is the type of honest and well-crafted theatre you should be watching.
‘Yellowman’ is on at The Orange Tree Theatre until the 8th of October 2022. From the 11th-14th of October, it will be available to stream on demand.
Review by Isabella Kirkpatrick
Rating: ★★★★★
Seat: B14 | Price of Ticket: £34
Photography by Ali Wright