You know these shows, which make you go crazy on Wikipedia right on your way home? The ones which uncover less-known biographies or Black cards of history right there in front of your eyes? If you’re a fan of the “ohhh this really happened?” feeling that gets you immediately shocked, this new play at Theatre503 would be a perfect choice for a fascinating evening. “The Great Privation (How to flip ten cents into a dollar)” is a 2023 Theatre503 International Playwriting Award Finalist and a UK debut of the writer Nia Akilah Robinson.
Get Ready For Some Seriously Creepy Story (With a Slight Supernatural Element)
Let’s get this straight though – this story covers a scary, touching and extremely sad part of the 1800s history. It shines a light on a dark chapter when Black bodies were stolen from their graves to meet the demands of medical schools. This was a time when Black people were exploited and dehumanised, and their families were often left in the dark.
The irony is painful—medical advancements from these studies, like treatments for cholera, rarely benefited the Black community. “The Great Privation” ties these sad histories with family trauma, the story of strong women and connecting all these in unexpected ways.
The Great Privation (How to flip ten cents into a dollar) – Performances and Characters
The play deftly weaves together two storylines – an 1800s family drama about a mother and daughter protecting the father’s grave from robbers, and a modern tale exploring identity. The contemporary storyline, set at the same location now used as a summer camp, offers a refreshing perspective. It highlights the importance of preserving Black ancestral history and passing down lessons across generations. This lightness provides valuable contrast to the heavy subject matter of the historical narrative.
A talented cast of 4 brought the real spirit to this double-sided story. Sydney Sainté is a standout, deftly transitioning between concerned 1800s mother and modern camp teacher. Her quick character changes were so clear and smooth that you always knew who she was playing, even without a costume change.
Romeo Mika, in the role of Janitor/Cuffee, gave a fantastic performance. He seamlessly transitioned from a gloomy, harsh character to an open and caring queer facilitator at the summer camp. Watching his transformation unfold was truly fascinating and enjoyable. Cuffee started as an awkward, annoying figure, but was slowly revealed to be a supportive queer man carrying painful baggage from his life. It was a well-written, relatable character that Mika brought to life beautifully.
Set Design and Symbolism – Surprisingly… White
The set, all in white with multiple doors, was full of hidden meanings. Whether it symbolises living in a white-dominated world or represents the many skeletons we hide in our closets, for me it added an engaging puzzle to decode throughout the show.
Script and Direction
The script had a nice flow and clearly explained the grave robbing backstory, even for audience members unfamiliar with it. However, some answers felt too obvious and “in your face.” During the first act, the connection between the two storylines remained unclear. This allowed for an engaging mystery, making me feel like I was watching a true crime show trying to piece together the full concept. But when the connection was later spelled out in a very straightforward way, I was surprised – I hadn’t guessed it correctly. Yet I was also a bit let down to receive such an overt explanation so quickly.
What’s more, the tone of voice in the last act was a bit too much of a mix for me. Cuffee’s monologue about their own identity and the challenges the XXIst century presents to Black men was just too sudden and serious, almost preacher-like. A shorter, more fitting speech would have kept the tone consistent within the play.
Can This Show Flip Emotions As Quick As It Flips Costumes On-Stage?
The actors made quick costume changes on stage. This technique worked well to instantly transition conversations between the mother and daughter characters across different centuries. Personally, I didn’t find it distracting – I’ve seen this done in multiple shows before. However, my friend who was relatively new to fringe theatre felt like the frequent costume changes proved distracting at times. So the impact of this staging choice may vary between audience members.
There were also some long scenes including strobe lights, so anyone sensitive to that should be careful. The cold air conditioning in the auditorium made the whole vibe in the theatre feel a bit eerie (it was already a bit of a chilly day).
One minor detail regarding the props—the skull used as a prop towards the end looked too new and shiny. It would have been more convincing if it looked a bit older and dirtier (some dark dust would do the trick).
A Thought-provoking Experience
“The Great Privation (How to Flip Ten Cents into a Dollar)” is a unique and moving theatrical experience. It vividly brings to life an important yet often overlooked piece of history. Throughout the show, the audience remains entertained and constantly guessing about the unfolding mysteries. Intriguing questions linger: “What’s in the box? Is this man really here for that purpose?” Yet the play also offers hope by exploring how modern characters honor their roots. Despite a few minor hiccups in the production, it proves thoroughly thought-provoking and enjoyable. The impactful story will stay with you long after the curtain falls.
The Great Privation (How to flip ten cents into a dollar)
Written by Nia Akilah Robinson
Directed by Kalungi Ssebandeke
22 May – 1 June 2023
Please note, the play include quite some triggers:
● Use of haze
● Usage of strobe lights
● Flashing lights
● Depictions of and references to racism
● Physical depiction of a dead body
● Depiction and discussions of grief
● Strong Language
Previous review of a show at Theatre503: These Demons
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