Director: Leo Kay
Reviewer: Elizabeth Ambrose
Lasting just 55 minutes 8sixteen32 was a whole new
cultural experience. Filled with energy, passion and talent the performance did not fail to entertain. A combination of humour, the discussion of contemporary issues along with the use of music gave this piece many dimensions.Focusing on four young aspiring MC’s living in inner city Birmingham, they each described their own experience inviting us to share in their journey to become the top dog of MCers. United by their passion and dreams these four individuals reflect true friendship, solidarity and oneness. That is until the announcement of a competition fuels their ambition but divides the unity of the group. They are given an opportunity to individually present their rapping skills for a chance to win the latest phone N 8sixteen32 and much craved stardom. As tension rises the desire to be the best comes between their friendship. As the play unravels it becomes clear that the competition was a ploy to promote the phone rather than acknowledge the talent. However, the group are still determined and come together for one final performance.
The Actors presented a range of skills which brought depth to each character. They have a diverse catalogue of experience each bringing a uniqueness to their role. Their personal passion for Grime, poetry and music added body to their performance, creating a realistic feel to the play. The way they used the stage space reflected their excellence as actors. Their use of mime and the lack of props meant that they held the audiences attention throughout.
I along with a friend went to see 8sixteen32 with excitement and anticipation. As we waited in the queue it soon became apparent that this play reached a particular audience: Young black people. This would be expected because of the nature of the play and the issues covered. If anything it brought our naivety and lack of cultural understanding to the surface. This meant that at times we felt alienated by our culture and as a result some parts of the plot were hard to follow.
The play dealt with a range of issues such as peer pressure, how the media both influences use of the latest technology and exploits young people and their desire to be accepted. They spoke about the power of music and how it can evoke emotion, an issue which was somewhat reflected in the audience as a fight broke out towards the end of the play. The play was informative, humorous and engaging. Overall a powerful and positive experience which would be recommended to all.
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