House clearing and reminiscence is the name of the game in this riddim and soul one-man play by Daniel Ward.
British-Jamaican Errol (Marshall) finds solace in his late fatherโs ska, rocksteady, and reggae playlist. He welcomes the audience, and we are instantly captivated, drawn into his world with a humbleness and charisma that is infectious and magnetic. Errol scans the audience and quips, “let me just check if there’s any black folks in” โ a line that causes an eruption of laughter since the venue is renowned for centring black stories. As the playlist rolls, the music sparks memories of his father’s conviction that the Brixton uprising of โ81 was inevitable โ a reaction to the oppression black communities were facing and which ultimately sparked riots up and down the country during this time. As Errol’s son becomes involved in the Black Lives Matter movement, a generational tension arises, forcing Errol to confront his past and question the cyclical nature of the fight for racial justice.
Marshall’s portrayal of Errol is incredibly skilled and responsive. Under the co-direction of Danielle Kassaratรฉ and Ward himself, he effortlessly shifts between humour and vulnerability, capturing the nuances of Errol’s emotional journey.
XANAโs impeccably curated playlist and sound design serves as the emotional backbone of the play and highlights the cultural significance of music on black community resistance and resilience. The set design resembles a familiar, vintage-retro style front room, allowing a space for Errol to reminisce and ponder as well as interact with his past and present. Everything I Own is a celebration of British black ingenuity and perseverance, highlighting the contributions of the Windrush generation and the complexities of navigating a society that is hostile to you. The play’s humanity, heart and powerful message makes it must-see.
Check out more from Brixton House| Find out more about Daniel Ward| Danielle Kassaratรฉ | Tony Marshall |
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