Writer: Hassan Govia
Director: Rebecca Goh
Unshaded Arts presents the world premiere of Because at Camden Fringe this week. This energetic solo show marks the company’s third full-length production, all of which have been written by Hassan Govia, who also performs this piece.
Because centres around Jade’s internal battles when some shocking news sets him on a path of existential self-exploration, confronting masculinity, mental illness and the long-term impact of bullying. From the outset, Govia impresses with a captivating stage presence and the audience is ready to follow wherever he takes them.
The narrative gradually peels back the layers of Jade’s psyche, drip-feeding information as the piece progresses. In theory, this should entice the audience, daring them to put the pieces together before the anticipated penny-drop moment. However, Govia also employs a lot of different voices to tell this story; through pre-recorded dialogue, soliloquy and multi-roling. While this is effective in its portrayal of the chaos inside of Jade’s mind, it also significantly confuses the piece. The performance feels quite busy and, at some points, overwhelming; causing the audience to step back rather than lean into the action.
In particular, the multi-roling conversations are difficult to follow. There are some distinctions between each of the supporting characters, in the way they are written and executed; however, they aren’t different enough from Jade himself. Therefore, when Govia begins switching between each side of these conversations at speed, the level of coherence begins to drop. More noticeable changes in voice or disciplined shifts in physicality would assist this.
Govia’s exchanges with the recordings played over the sound system are much more slick, developing a surprisingly natural flow and momentum. Besides a synchronisation error in the final scene, the contribution of the tech is very smooth and effectively embodies Jade’s intrusive thoughts. The amount of preparation and skill required from the Unshaded Arts team to deliver this cannot be overstated.
Govia clearly has a strong vision for this production and there are many excellent moments which stand out, though there is still work to be done to make Because a cohesive piece of storytelling. With a huge amount of potential, this production will hopefully return bigger and better in the future.
Runs until 9 August 2024
Camden Fringe runs until 25 August 2024
The Reviews Hub Score
Energetic
