Limp Wrist and the Iron Fist at Brixton House Review
Written by Annie for Theatre & Tonic
Disclaimer: Gifted tickets in exchange for an honest review
Emmanuel Akwafo’s newest play opened at Brixton House on Monday evening. Inspired by the writer’s own life, Limp Wrist & The Iron Fist explores Black queer identity and both the beauty and the pain within the community.
Following a group of four friends, the play takes place at an East London bus stop, as the group waits for a bus to Soho. A simple setting but hugely impactful, it offers a detailed insight into the group and humanises the conversation in a wonderfully real way. It feels like you’re watching a true group of friends, and the conversation feels extremely authentic from start to finish, which is a testament to Akwafo’s script writing, as you feel immediately at ease with the group.
Akwafo’s script is wonderfully colloquial and real, yet discusses multiple heavy topics with power, consideration and care. Given that it is a relatively short piece, the number of themes covered is impressive, not only for their breadth but for the depth at which they are explored. There is a wonderfully harmonious balance between the light and dark moments, a credit to Akwafo’s writing, as the dialogue never once drops off; you are hooked from the very first line.
Annie Lunnette Deakin-Foster’s movement is an excellent addition to the show. It sets the tone from the very start, highlights the dynamic and powerful intent for the play, and grips you instantly. It brings the show and the script to life, offering natural movement and power to the play, which gives the simple scenery new dimensions.
Directed by Nathanael Campbell, it is evident the show is a true labour of love - to honour the stories and present them with care, attention and intent. Campbell’s understanding of the script and translation to the stage is magical, and it’s evident there was a clear vision, which was successfully brought to life with the help of Amelia Jane Hankin’s set design and Jahmiko Marshall’s lighting.
Noah Thomas portrays Nathaniel with wonderful care; his performance is considered and powerful. Prince Kundai’s depiction of Monday is equally impressive, every bit stoic and defensive, yet he reluctantly begins to break down his walls, and we see the layers to the character. Romeo Mika plays Joseph with great humour and strength, giving brilliant dynamics to the role. Finally, Tyler Orphé-Baker portrays Omari, balancing all of the men and creating a unity between the roles.
Akwafo’s talent as a writer shines through their characters; they each individually explore a range of heavy themes but unite and process as a collective. We see the complex relationship between men and their emotions, as well as on less explored themes of black queer identity. Akwafo’s storytelling abilities allow these themes to be discussed and addressed in an incredibly raw and honest manner, without waning interest or pace to the show.
Limp Wrist & The Iron Fist is an incredibly thought-provoking piece and was an honour to be in the room to receive this piece. I hope to see the show move on to bigger and brighter successes after its run at Brixton House, but for now - I urge you to grab a ticket before it’s too late! You won’t be disappointed by this powerfully beautiful play.
Limp Wrist & The Iron Fist plays at Brixton House until 29 November
★ ★ ★ ★
