Liberation at Royal Exchange Theatre Manchester Review
Eamonn Walker (George Padmore) in Liberation. Credit: Ishashah Photography
Written by Joseph for Theatre & Tonic
Disclaimer: Gifted tickets in exchange for an honest review
Revolution, freedom, liberation! Liberation is a new play from writer Ntombizodwa Nyoni, about the 5th Pan African Congress that occurred in Manchester in 1945. I must confess that I was not aware of the events of the piece until I saw it; however, I feel that it is more of an indictment of the UK School system than of me.
The congress had many different people attending, delegates, speakers, and we see a small selection. Well-defined characters intertwine masterfully with Monique Touko’s direction. Ambitious Kwame Nkrumah (Eric Kofi Abrefa), Stylish Jomo Kenyatta (Tonderai Munyevu), and cheeky Marko (Rudolphe Mdlongwa) all impress, showing characters that are strong and independent in unique ways.
Gender dynamics are another string that Nyoni is tugging on. In a congress dominated by men, can women challenge them and be heard? Pamela Nomvete puts in a tour de force performance as Amy Ashwood-Garvey, showing us two sides of the same coin, and what can happen when your dignity is taken, especially publicly.
The central theme is epitomised in Eamonn Walker’s George Padmore. A man of passion and principle, and like all men, does not know what to do. He is faced with a choice. Mentoring Kwame is like taming a wild horse; he is sure there is good intent, but he is concerned that his ambition will be his downfall. Trying to teach him patience without forcing him away. The tension in their relationship is palpable. Kwame, at times, feels ready to physically burst.
Relationships are tested, questioned, and even interrogated. Even with a cause as pure as this, humans are flawed. Mistakes will happen, and you may not know which way to turn, but one thing is for certain: We will all go together, towards one thing. Freedom.
Liberation plays at the Royal Exchange Theatre until 26 July
★★★★★
