Fat Ham at the RSC’s Swan Theatre Review
Olisa Odele in Fat Ham. Photo by Ali Wright
Written by Emmie for Theatre & Tonic
Disclaimer: Gifted tickets in exchange for an honest review
Known for presenting a plethora of exciting debuts, the RSC hits the nail on the head with its deliciously sharp comedy production of Fat Ham. This Pulitzer Prize-winning play by James Ijames first premiered as a filmed production for the Wilma Theater in 2021, before making its Off-Broadway debut in 2022. Since then, it has enjoyed several other productions, including in 2024. Now the show makes its UK premiere, perfectly easing audiences into the autumnal season.
Fat Ham is a creative reinterpretation of Shakespeare’s infamous tragedy Hamlet, set entirely in the backyard of a Southern home, with all the action taking place during a barbecue. At its heart is Juicy, a young, queer Black man navigating his identity, masculinity, and the expectations placed upon him by his family. Visited by the ghost of his late father, Juicy is ordered to seek revenge for his murder.
Over the course of a 95-minute performance, Fat Ham unfolds a story that, while rooted in tragedy, becomes a profound exploration of breaking generational cycles and forging your own path. It resonates on multiple levels, encompassing emotional, personal, and cultural themes, but it's not all heavy. The comedic style is sharp and intentional, with some play of the fourth wall that allows the audience to be drawn further in. There are some perfectly placed nods to the original Hamlet that enable it to still feel present throughout. Overall, James Ijames’ play manages to perfectly balance the weight of its themes with a satisfying, layered finish.
The writing aligns seamlessly with how Sideeq Heard directs the play, fully utilising the intimate but versatile spacing of the Swan Theatre. The space is transformed into the backyard with a playful use of the various ways actors can move around the stage. Amped up by some Skylar Fox’s illusions results in this gilded aesthetic that works so well.
Led by Olisa Odele as Juicy, his performance is magnetic. Odele brings his character to life with a delightful blend of sharp wit and emotional depth that drives the narrative perfectly. He’s joined by Jasmine Elcock, Sandra Marvin, Corey Montague-Sholay, Andi Osho, Sule Rimi and Kieran Taylor-Ford, an exceptionally talented collective who are equally razor-sharp with their characters. Their chemistry with one another is electric on stage and adds to the comedic impact. Sandra Marvin and Sule Rimi were particular standouts!
If you’re looking for something fresh, energetic and outrageously fun, whilst also understanding some important topics - Fat Ham is the one! Don’t miss out on this flipping joyous explosion of laughter at the Swan Theatre until 13 September 2025.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
