Pulizer Prize Winner, Fat Ham at Swan Theatre.
- Martin Hudson
- 8 minutes ago
- 2 min read
Fat Ham by James Ijames, at The RSC Swan Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon from 15 August to 13 September. Director: Sideeq Heard
Review by Martin Hudson.
Ten years ago if you had suggested to me the concept of a Hamlet inspired play set in deep south America I may have regarded you with something approaching suspicion, but there is absolutely nothing suspicious about Fat Ham. A previous recipient of the Pulizer Prize, James Ijames’ play is welcomed back with a riotous performance filled with energy, wit, ingenuity, and charisma, as the stellar cast produce a show almost too large to be contained. From the moment Juicy’s dead dad Pap appears to set him on the course of revenge at a family barbeque, you know you’re in for a good ride.
That the play is inspired by the Shakespearean tragedy is not shied away from, and potential pitfalls are treated with a lightness of touch and thoughtfulness which adds texture and warmth to a play which already has it in abundance. The actors bounce and fizz off each other with exquisite comic timing, the characters each playing the perfect foil for one another. The broody gentleness of Juicy (Olisa Odele) against the bawdiness of best friend Tio (Kieran Taylor-Ford); the combativeness of Opal (Jasmine Elcock) alongside the deliberate stiffness of brother Larry (Corey Montague-Sholay); the hapless charm of Tedra (Andi Osho) next to the intimidating figure of Rev (Sule Rimi), and the church-going matriarch Rabby (Sandra Marvin) topping it off.
To single out individual performances here would be to detract from the power of this group as a collective; that they understand each other and love working together is evident, and the hilarity and fun that defines this show hinges on those relationships, and a stage presence and chemistry which hooks the audience and holds them there.
Underpinning the laughter though are feelings of angst and threat as the play explores themes of identity, belonging, alienation, and expectation, the characters each searching for themselves and a better understanding of the world and their place in it. Moments of tenderness and emotion feel very human, and times of self-reflection are navigated with excellent stage craft and often punctured with a prodding of a fourth wall it is easy to question was ever really there.
It is fitting that the performance should end with a confetti-laden disco party, signifying an approach to tragedy which celebrates diversity, acceptance, and joy of life, for while Fat Ham may be a story of self-discovery in modern times, the journey still echoes.
For further details and to book tickets: https://www.rsc.org.uk/fat-ham
