In what has been hailed as a “groundbreaking” collaboration between the Bristol Old Vic Young Company and the National Youth Theatre, ‘Pigeon English’ is a modern and high energy production.
Adapted for the stage by Gbolahan Obisesan, from the debut novel by English author Stephen Kelman, this very modern day tale is told from the point of view of Harrison Okupu, an 11-year-old Ghanaian immigrant, investigating the murder of a local boy who has been the victim of knife crime.
Directed by Miranda Cromwell, it is an engaging and authentic portrayal of life on a grimy London estate, showcasing some excellent young talent.
A high energy lead performance by David Johnson as Harri was sustained throughout, giving a realistic impression of the pace and flux of urban life, and never allowing the audience’s attention to waiver.
Johnson narrates Harrison’s experiences of getting to grips with life in London, school, his housing estate and the dangers surrounding him, innocently – without being sanctimonious.
Despite being of broadly similar ages, the cast successfully convey a range of generations with authenticity.
The sense that the actors really are familiar with this world off stage is enhanced with beatboxing, free running, and visual projections.
Review by Lizzie Murray
Pigeon English is at the Bristol Old Vic until Sunday, when it heads to the Edinburgh Festival. Visit www.bristololdvic.org.uk/pigeon.html.
