Bangers – Arcola Theatre, London

Writer: Danusia Samal

Director: Chris Sonnex

Entering the theatre feels like stepping into a UK garage club night as DJ and Narrator Tanya-Loretta Dee sets an infectious tone with all the classic tunes. She brings the good vibes before protagonists Aria and Cleff burst out of nowhere, ready to tell their story.

Aria, a 30-year-old recently out of a relationship, grapples with her past and the challenge of healing. Across town, Cleff, an 18-year-old on the brink of adulthood, faces choices about his future. United by their passion for music and singing, we flip between these two stories and how they relate, echo and interlace. Danusia Samal, Jim Caesar and Tanya-Loretta Dee captivate as charming storytellers, guiding the audience through a journey enriched with rhythmic poetry and musical interludes. Samal’s writing has a distinct lyrical quality, effectively marrying style with the thematic elements of music. The plot is dynamic and the characters are layered and relatable.

Sonnex’s direction and Zoë Hurwitz’s design showcase a harmonious collaboration, transforming the space with strategically placed music speakers that shift the setting and seamlessly transition scenes. Sonnex’s simple yet effective use of props, coupled with Samal and Caesar’s adept multirole performances, expands the protagonists’ world and immerses us in their complex relationships.

Laura Howard’s lighting skilfully uses colour combinations to bring to life the club scenes and music, contrasting these vibrant moments with melancholic spots that highlight the characters’ inner dramas. Duramaney Kamara’s composition and sound design tie everything together, enhancing poignant moments in the story with a masterful mix that guides us through the emotional journey.

Bangers is a vibrant and fizzing example of engaging storytelling. The exceptional talents of all involved create a seamless production that tugs at the heartstrings while making you want to lose yourself in the music and dance.

Runs until 10 August 2024