Review: DADDY, Almeida Theatre

Photo credit: Marc Brenner

Daddy at the Almeida is an incredible feat of theatre in its blend of styles, unapologetically and successfully mixing an expressionistic and stylised approach played out on a naturalistic set and very truthful performances. One moment, an actor is swimming in a pool and the next they are being serenaded by an ensemble of gospel singers. Director Danya Taymor has created a beautiful collage of theatrical styles that exist in perfect harmony with one another in this new melodrama by Jeremy O. Harris.

Daddy follows young black artist Franklin as he finds himself entangled with an older, white rich art collector who is taken by him from the first night they meet; high on molly, full of lust and intrigued by Franklin's criticism of the art that hangs on Antoine's walls.

The first act is a real success with every second fully captivating its audiences who begin to invest in the protagonist and his relationship with Antoine.

As its title suggests, the play explores the dynamics that arise in a love affair between two men with a significant age gap, suggesting connections between desiring a father figure in connection to upbringing, lack of parental validation, self sabotage and more.

The show kicks off with an exciting first act but is slightly let down by its second act. An unnecessarily signposted epilogue explains the themes and "meaning" of the play amounting to simplification. However the direction, design and performance cannot be faulted and are flawless in truthful delivery and impressive bravado in this fusion of theatrical styles. The play is certainly original, provocative and rich in its different flavours, however its ending would benefit from more confidence in the abilities of its audience to deduce their own meaning.

**** Four stars

Reviewed by: Viv Williams

Daddy plays at the Almeida Theatre until 30 April, with tickets available here.