Writer and Director: Dominic Garfield
Lyrics: Lady Lykez, Dominic Garfield and Company
Part drama, part rave and a near constant stream of Grime, this show is a heady mixture that few companies would ever dream of let alone pull off, but HighRise Entertainment brings everything together masterfully.
Each part of the show, the rave, drama and Grime, deserves attention. The rave is the basis for the whole play as we, the audience, are ushered into a theatre turned nightclub, with music blasting, the bar open and no seating in sight. It’s a setup that hints at immersive theatre, and the actors milling about the crowd and striking up conversations in character play into this, more as a stylistic touch rather than a central focus of the show.
Instead, the plot happens on dedicated stages around the venue and with none of the complications of immersive theatre. The tale starts in 2001, following 15-year-old Jaida as she’s taken under the wing of up-and-coming Grime artist Blanka and his crew. Encountering resistance from inside and outside her new group, Jaida (Lady Lykez) pushes through and achieves status in the world of Grime over the ups and downs of a ten-year career.
It’s a journey that plays into mostly predictable story beats and often feels like it’s pulling its punches, especially near the end when a final confrontation between Jaida and her rivals peters out rather than popping off. The best stuff in the story comes in the form of supporting characters Hypez (Alexander Lobo Moreno) and Twist (Joshua Cameron) who are not only performed brilliantly but clearly have the most fun and range with their characters. If the overall drama was at their level, the show would be much improved.
But thankfully there’s music at the heart of it all. After the wobbles in the narrative, this is the real saving grace – the production of original tracks is excellent, the performances committed and the referencing of Grime classics top notch. When the beat is hitting and the rave atmosphere is connecting, and even the tidbits of drama are doing their part to support the tension on stage, this whole show is at its best.
In these moments every performer, with mics or a DJ deck, hits every note and makes the whole thing exceptional. This is a special show with little else like it – if you’ve any love for Grime you can’t miss it.
Reviewed on 14 February 2025 and continues to tour
The Reviews Hub Score
Grime Greatness
