After touring extensively through Europe, and in the middle of a small but mighty run in Camberwell, The Life and Death of Martin Luther King has surpassed itself in depicting an ordinary man who shared extraordinary dreams of racial equality in the deep southern states of America. Directed by Adrian Decosta, the story takes place in the thick of the Civil Rights Movement that gained speed in the 1960s.
The cast and creatives have thrown together a compelling piece of storytelling rooted in real life, verbatim speeches from the mouth of Luther King himself, and crafted a show that is gripping and unforgettable. John Kenny’s musical underscoring makes for bold protest songs that are perfectly placed in key parts of the show, and the Jazz score helps to elevate the story even further.
The core cast (Lincoln James, Toara Bankole, Andrew Earl and Will Batty) all took on multiple roles and morphed their way through the story, except for Luther King (Adrian Decosta). Although there were various moments in the show that saw King more vulnerable, like when he is taken to a police station in a grubby shirt or at home in his pajamas, the story doesn’t shy away from sharing the many angles of this historical figure. Luther King had reservations and imperfections the same as any other man, and the show faithfully depicted this as a central theme in the second half when the plot about his extramarital affairs came to light.
The standout scene came at the end of the first half, when the minimal set design was used excellently to prop up an American flag, elevating King high above the stage on a podium. Stylistic choices in this show were used sparingly in a non-forced way, and it made the most unique moments shine. Additionally, the use of space in the theatre was incredibly engaging; by positioning the news reporter Jack Nader in the audience and having spotlights central to him whilst he reported, as well as the use of sound effects like large crowds and street noise, it transported onlookers straight to historic scenes and became all encompassing. The use of these devices contributed to making this show utterly gripping.
The Life and Death of Martin Luther King is showing at a special time in the calendar. With Martin Luther King day taking place on the 20th January, it feels like a poignant act to see this show and to be completely immersed by one of the 20th Century’s most remembered changemakers. It is clear how much love and respect was poured into the making of this show, as a tribute to the man himself.
The Life and Death of Martin Luther King runs at Golden Goose Theatre until the 5th January.
★★★★☆ (4*)
Gifted tickets in return for an honest review
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