Review: RUSH: A JOYOUS JAMAICAN JOURNEY, Birmingham Rep - Tour
Photo credit: Elijah Thompson Photography
Rush, A Joyous Jamaican Journey commenced its first voyage in 2019 and since then, it has built somewhat of a cult following. In the auditorium of the Birmingham REP, there were rumblings of visits the prior year and palpable excitement to be back and journey once more with the Rush Theatre Company. Advertised as a narrated musical, Rush, A Joyous Jamaican Journey travels far away from the traditions of dramatic monologues or attempts to transport audiences to a new magical land. Instead, it offers an authentic and immersive celebration of Jamaica's rich cultural heritage and musical legacy. For this reason we, at West End Best Friend, have decided not to offer a star rating for this production. It is neither a traditional musical nor a typical theatre piece. Instead, it is a concert punctuated with historical nuggets of Jamaican history, only briefly touching on the Windrush experience, from which both the show and the company derive their name. This unique format makes it challenging to categorise.
Andrina Davis is overflowing with joy and charisma as the Narrator; however, this is limited by the sheer amount of text she must read at speed to maintain pace and pack a vast amount of content and songs into a 2-hour 45-minute show (including interval). The song choices seem driven by their appeal rather than their relevance to the time, location, or context of the narration, resulting in a slightly unsettling watch. The rise of British fascism followed by ‘My Boy Lollipop’? And a rather self-indulgent rendition of Adele's Hello’? While the "story" lacks direction, editing, and comedic punctuation, the true joy and purpose of this production is the celebration of Caribbean Music by the incredible JA Band.
Led by the unassuming Orvil Pinnock, the eight-piece band aimed to energise the Birmingham REP with clever arrangements and a team of skilled musicians who play with enthusiasm, charm, and occasional choreography. It's evident that each band member has a deep passion for reggae music. Special recognition goes to Ruth Ible on percussion, whose spirited playing seemed to defy any audience observation, with energy pouring off the stage.
Fronted by three remarkably talented vocalists—IKA, Letitia George, and Tanisha Chambers—supported by Ruth Ible and Ken Dread, they deliver potent harmonies infused with a soulful gospel resonance that, at times, send shivers down your spine. IKA and Letitia led their performances with confidence, fostering a connection with both audience and band that invites participation rather than mere observation.
However, the performance would benefit from a more balanced distribution of songs among the vocalists. Tanisha often found herself in a supporting role, yet when given the spotlight, she revealed a technical prowess and soulful depth that resonated deeply, showcasing her underutilised talent.
We would describe this as more of an experience than a traditional show. There's something humbling about the minimalist set and PowerPoint presentations that resemble something your great uncle might create to showcase his holiday photos. A standout moment is the Gospel section, where the audience can't resist joining in with the songs, evoking memories of Pentecostal church services regardless of their current religious beliefs.
By the end, the continuous stream of tunes has everyone on their feet, singing along, and importantly, clapping to the offbeat. If you come expecting a typical musical or theatrical performance, you will be disappointed. However, come expecting a concert and to dance like nobody's watching, you will have an experience of a lifetime.
Reviewed by: Alanna Boden
RUSH: A Joyous Jamaican Journey plays at Birmingham REP until 29 June, with further info here.