Pig Heart Boy, which is based on the novel by Malorie Blackman and adapted for stage by Winsome Pinnock, is a life-affirming and heart-warming story about young Cameron who suffers from a heart condition and undergoes a heart transplant. The name of the play, as odd as it first appears, quite literally describes the story, for Cameron's heart donor is none other than a pig named Trudy. Directed by Tristan Fynn-Aiduenu, the play tackles a variety of tough subjects and hard decisions with a gentle touch, and ensures that the play is not only suitable but also appealing to younger audiences.
Cameron (Immanuel Yeboah), a 13 year old with a heart condition, feels out of place amongst his friends for his inability to fully partake in their games for fear of exerting himself too much. Despite being well-liked, Cameron remains on the sidelines and he feels like an outsider. Cameron is offered a new procedure; transplanting a pig's heart due to lack of human donors and a ticking clock by Dr. Bryce (Tré Medley). After initial hesitation and support from his family, Cameron goes through with the procedure. However, when word of this is leaked, Cameron once again finds himself in a difficult predicament, as an outsider in the centre of attention.
The play deals with a number of heavy topics, yet allows them to play out naturally, giving young audiences time to understand and recognise them. The play is careful to never over explain or patronise the audiences, by keeping Cameron as the narrator of the play, much like the book. Cameron often describes the events of a scene, helping both showcase his child-like tendencies to over dramatise with his imagination, and to help condense quite complex subjects with simple examples.
Using the writer's' choice for Cameron to remain as the narrator really helps draw audiences in and helps us understand the depth of each decision. Whilst for most, the importance of winning at "Dare Devil Dive" may seem trivial, it consumes Cameron's thoughts. Whilst it can also be seen as a metaphor for wanting to feel included, the insistence of its current importance is highlighted throughout the show and speaks volumes. Author Blackman, a renowned writer for young readers, speaks with a voice that children will connect and relate to without alienating adults either.
The play also chooses not to focus solely on the medical procedure, although this remains at the core of most conversation. Playwright Pinnock chooses to include moments of domestic conflict between Cameron's parents as they struggle to come to terms with the transplant and with other unexpected matters. There's an external and internal battle about animal rights, as activists threaten the thin veil that Cameron stands behind, creating a justifiable yet frightening anger that chips away at the characters.
The cast do a wonderful job, especially with a majority playing two roles; adult and child. Medley as Dr. Bryce (and Cameron's classmate Andrew), takes the initially effortlessly cool and passionate on a rather revealing emotional journey as he is plagued by animal right activists and the stress of keeping Cameron safe. Akil Young as Cameron's dad Mike (and classmate Rashid), does a fine job as the dependable and sturdy, yet vulnerable Mike. Christine During as Cameron's mum Cathy (and Cameron's classmate and crush Julie) takes on an emotionally challenging role as she tries to calm her own fears and remain supportive and strong. Although told through the innocence of the 13-year old Cameron, the pain and pride that the characters go through is clear through these strong performances.
Chia Phoenix as Nan, Trudy, Cameron's Teacher Mrs. Stewart and animal rights activist is astonishingly brilliant in every role. Phoenix steals every scene that she is in, and easily charms the audience with steadfast performances. Phoenix's warm and wisdom as Nan will doubtlessly remain with the young audiences. Christina Ngoyi as Cameron's best friend Marilyn, Dr Elrich, TV presenter and Officer is another wonderful performer, bringing out a rather sweet and layered performance. Immanuel Yeboah as Cameron is a remarkable performer, who delivers an unforgettable performance. Yeboah takes on a tough role with ease, and shines on stage. With a natural flair for theatrical storytelling, an earnest portrayal, charm and cheek aplenty, Yeboah neatly navigates the play's most brutal and heart breaking scenes, alongside the light hearted moments.
The set has been designed by Paul Wills and is an instant delight to behold. Lighting cables and wires emerge from a central spot, on a scaffolding-like structure, entangled and interwoven. As audiences enter the auditorium, the centre is red and red lights pulsate throughout the wires, along with a gentle vibration, denoting a heart beat. These wires change colours throughout the piece, creating tone and scenery for the show. The metal structure provides various levels, that the characters use to hide away in or as stand in props. There are multiple old TVs that are planted around the stage that also helps set scenes, providing additional context to each new location.
The lighting plays a large part in the show, with designer Andrew Exeter creating a wonderfully immersive and stunning world. Using a ripple effect, the lighting cables and a whole auditorium wash, Exeter takes the audience under water with Cameron and other characters, in a rather satisfactory way. Sound designer and composer XANA creates a gentle audible backdrop to the play, helping the flow of the story. DK Fashola serves as the movement director, creating a vivid and energetic environment for the children, allowing them to be introduced through a rather fast paced dance break.
Pig Heart Boy is a gorgeous piece of theatre that will not only delight younger audiences with the stunning set and strong performances, but will leave them open to new experiences. The play serves as a gateway between fiction and reality and invites kids and adults alike to take away a sense of inner strength, courage, and love. A fantastic adaptation, Pig Heart Kid is a surefire hit.
Pig Heart Boy is playing at the Unicorn Theatre until 22nd February before embarking on a UK tour.
★★★★★ (5*)
Gifted tickets in return for an honest review | Photography by Ali Wright
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