Nicole Moore, co-founder of Words of Colour, explains why she is stepping down as Creative Arts Director and outlines her future creative plans.
Time Out feature writer and reviewer Tamara Gausi offers some pointers to budding critics including how to cope with adverse reactions to your reviews.
The loss of one of her twin boys inspired holistic complementary therapist, artist and writer Hyacinth Myers to offer other parents a creative outlet. She highlights why.
Susan Yearwood has launched a new literacy agency. As one of a handful of UK-based black book agents she is on the look out for talented new voices.
Read the second and final part in our series - a week in the life of a budding writer - with our short story competition winners. This time it’s runner up Mahsuda Shah.
November/December 2007
The Brothers Size
Theatre: Young Vic
Playwright: Tarell Alvin McCraney
Duration: Extended until 15th December 2007
Review by: Joy Francis
The tale of two brothers who take different paths in life – one straight, the other crooked – is well trodden ground in literature. In the case of The Brothers Size, this familiar scenario is taken by the scruff of its neck, transported to Louisiana USA and infused with Yoruba mythology to create an enthralling theatrical experience.
Solid and responsible Ogun Size (played by Nyasha Hatendi) runs an auto repair shop. His charming and wayward brother Oshoosi (Obi Abili) is living with him after his release from prison. Fearful that his little brother may fall back into crime, Ogun pesters Oshoosi to work in his garage. Ogun is resistant. He craves freedom and feels that Ogun is restricting him, like a prison warden, when he is determined to be ‘free from the Pen’.
Ogun is further unsettled by the presence of Elegba (Nathaniel Martello-White) Oshoosi’s former cellmate, and his intense relationship with Oshoosi. The rivalry between them over Oshoosi simmers. So when Elegba brings a car to the garage to be fixed as a present for Oshoosi, Ogun feels his hold on his brother slipping and a dramatic tug of war over Oshoosi’s soul begins.
Award-winning Tarell Alvin McCraney’s story of brotherhood, sexuality, racism and thwarted aspirations is emotionally-charged and given depth by the mesmeric acting from the three-strong cast. The language is spicy, witty and controversial; the regular use of the N-word caused a frisson among some of the audience.
Backed by atmospheric percussion and lighting, and a sparse, barren set, the actors amply fill the space with dance, singing and a physicality that captivated the audience from start to end. The standing ovation The Brothers Size prompted is a clear indication that this is a play not to be missed.
For more information on how to book, go to the Forum section.
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