
Talawa’s Play On! is a slick, joyous production honouring the legacy of Duke Ellington
4 stars Talawa’s Play On! is a dynamic retelling of Shakespeare’s Twelfth Night; set in Harlem’s legendary Cotton Club. A young songwriter arrives to New York, ready to make it to the top in ‘a man’s world’. What ensues is a classical journey of disguise, musicality and romance set upon a timeless jazz soundtrack - phenomenally presented with a live on-stage band. The musical was originally conceived by Sheldon Epps and written by Cheryl L.West - debuting in 1990s New York. Talawa’s revival, directed by Artistic Director Michael Buffong, is a joy-filled production full of heart, slick movement direction and soulful vocals. Though the play draws loose inspiration from the classic Shakespeare play, it feels like a unique ode to the legacy of Duke Ellington. The blend of jazz and street dance (choreographed by Kenrick H2O Sandy) give the 1940s backdrop a refreshing, contemporary essence. Earl Gregory and Tsemaye Bob-Egbe | Ciara Hillyer Production Viola/Vyman (Tsemaye Bob-Egbe) and The Duke (Earl Gregory) lead with undeniable chemistry and immaculate vocals. Amidst the chaos of the young musicians/lovers, Sweets (Lifford Shillingford) and Miss Mary (Tanya Edwards) provide moments of tender relief. Whilst Llewellyn Jamal provides slick, comic relief as Viola’s uncle Jester. A particular highlight is the impassioned rendition of Rocks in My Bed , in which three men share their romance woes in spectacular fashion at the Cotton Club’s bar. Lifford Shillingford delivers a phenomenal, unforgettable performance. Play On is at the heart of the Talawa’s Black Joy Season; a partnership between Talawa, Olivier Award-winning J Clare Productions and Chuchu Ngawu Productions to create local and national opportunities for Black artists. Play On! is on at Lyric Hammersmith until 22 Feb 2025.
Theatre reviewer Ilayda McIntosh reviews the jazzy, live band presentation of Play On! at Lyric Hammersmith.