Lima, which is written and performed by Julian Azad Bonnet, is a solo show about love, life and loss. Co-directed by Clara Rozzi and Bonnet, the piece uses music, poetry, video and performance to create a space to find beautiful in the mundane, and the magic in every moment.
The show starts with examples of small frustrations and irritating interactions of everyday life, examples are being harassed by bikers and people pushing past you to get onto the tube. Bonnet is aggravated and angry, and it's not a particularly engaging watch until the mention of his personal life. Talking about his siblings and mother is when the play really kicks off, sadly about 10-15 minutes into the show. Introduced as a lively and warm individual, these recollections of his mother are laced with an air of being bittersweet.
Bonnet is a wonderful writer, lingering on certain poetic moments with acute sensitivity and romance. Weaving an overarching narrative of love and loss in his personal relationships, especially his sick mother, Bonnet has created a moving piece. However, the many anecdotes that are dotted through this narrative distract from the emotional thread, distracting the audience with unnecessary diversions that don't really add much. These moments seem too performative and forced, as though Bonnet was attempting to interject observational comedy into the piece, and dilute the otherwise strong emotional tug.
Bonnet does well in the scenes that are drawn from his own life, allowing himself to bear his heart on stage, but the supposedly funnier anecdotes don't quite lend much in performance either. The Poem, however, redeems the show, even pushing it on the path towards excellence. Written and performed in French, there is certain moments that were lost in translation. Yet, it still commends attention and moves the audience.
The piece explores the fleeting moments and nostalgia well, using the green flash before a sunset. It's a beautiful visual imagery that has the audience reflecting and planning their next sunset watch. Bonnet beautifully paints this haunting moment with his words.
Accompanying this is a video screen that provides, not only the subtitles, but also a well edited video. The clips are well thought out, initially brimming with pop references but later become more sombre, reflecting the many things that humanity caused.
Lima is a solo comedy that encourages audiences to seize the day and make every moment count for each of them, and how loss carries so much beauty. It could do with being tightened significantly, but ultimately tells a commendable story. Lima is currently playing at the Etcetera Theatre until 9th September - for more information and tickets, you can follow the link here.
⭐️⭐️⭐️ (3*)
Gifted tickets in return for an honest review
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