Director Adam Karim and his superb cast – Maanuv Thiara and Usaamah Ibraheem Hussain – have evidently been inspired by this superb play from Rajiv. Last seen, too long ago, at the Bush Theatre, this is script with the ability to bring out the best from creatives who tackle it.
Although a two-hander, and relatively short, Joseph’s play is packed with politics and philosophy. The characters, Humayun and Babur, are deep thinkers with a keen sense of beauty. Karim brings out the piece’s tragicomic tone with both dark humour and trauma captured by the performers.
The scenario is simple: two guards working before the Taj Mahal is completed go on to play a role in Emperor Shah Jahan’s plan to make sure nothing as beautiful is ever built again. The play is gruesome and tense but the chemistry between the performers ensures we never lose sight of a moving personal drama.
These are detailed depictions, right from the start; even picking up swords shows us two different personalities. The surprising comedy is especially strong, the banter adds to the idea that these childhood friends are like brothers. At the same time, Thiara manages to convey the weight of expectations from Humayun’s father. And Hussain elaborates Babur’s “fairytales or predictions” with such delight, it is contagious.
Staging the play in the round is done with great care (there are moments that making sure everyone gets a good look might be relaxed). And the production benefits from excellent music, credited to Niraj Chag with sound design by Xana. One highlight is a moment of comfort, sung by Humayun to his traumatised friend, a tune taken up and, like the birds he finds beautiful, allowed to fly.
While there are a lot of laugh out loud moments, overall Karim’s view is bleak. There is a sense that the men are trapped in their circumstances – only their imaginations can take flight. How seriously could we take suggestions of escape? Giving both roles a boyish charm proves a fascinating move. Karim interprets the play with little hope but plenty of emotion and the result is profound.
Until 16 November 2024
Photo by Lidia Crisafulli