Review: NOWHERE, Battersea Arts Centre
Photo credit: Helen Murray
Khalid Abdalla’s Nowhere presents a unique and compelling "anti-biography" that defies traditional narrative structures. Right from the beginning, Abdalla sets the tone by establishing the performance space as a refuge, contrasting it with a world where safety often feels elusive for many. This idea of a "nowhere" being a safe space becomes a powerful metaphor, serving as the backdrop for Abdalla’s exploration of his personal and familial history.
The performance, rooted in intergenerational trauma and the long shadows cast by historical crises and wars, particularly in Egypt, feels deeply personal. Abdalla recounts the experiences of his father and grandfather, offering a poignant reflection on prejudice, oppression, and the weight of the past on future generations. These stories of personal pain are not presented in a linear or straightforward way; instead, Abdalla’s "anti-biography" is an unconventional and fragmented narrative, filled with emotion and tension.
What makes Nowhere stand out is Abdalla's refusal to surrender to despair. Rather than succumbing to a resigned "nothing will change" mindset, he aligns his performance with the powerful cry of "no justice, no peace." This defiance and hope are central to the piece, urging the audience to reflect on the need for action and resistance in the face of injustice.
Under the direction of Omar Elerian, Nowhere becomes a visually and creatively rich experience. Elerian’s touch allows the performance to balance its weighty content with an engaging, at times playful, delivery. Abdalla employs a range of gadgets and interactive techniques, drawing the audience into the performance, making them not just passive observers but active participants in the storytelling.
While the performance is undoubtedly intense and demands attention, it is far from alienating. Instead, Abdalla’s charisma and the inventive format keep the audience captivated. His use of multimedia elements and personal anecdotes make the show both informative and entertaining, though it never sacrifices the seriousness of its themes for spectacle.
Ultimately, Nowhere is not a show to sit back and relax with. It asks difficult questions and calls on the audience to feel a sense of urgency. The theatricality of the piece amplifies the message, reminding us of the unique power of live performance to provoke thought, engage emotions, and inspire action. In the end, Nowhere is a bold and innovative piece of theatre that resonates with both personal and political meaning, leaving its audience with a lasting impression.
**** Four stars
Reviewed by: Beatriz Do O
Nowhere plays at Battersea Arts Centre until 19 October, with further info here.
