On their stoop in Queens, New York, Lamont, a legendary emcee, and Mr. Bugz, a hall-of-fame DJ, have made a pastime of teasing their musical-theatre-loving neighbour, Gerry. When aspiring rappers Nancy and Val arrive, challenging their ideas about race, sexuality, and art, they must confront what it truly means to "keep it real."

Dan McCabe’s The Purists opens on the shared stoop of a building in Sunnyside, Queens. Mr. Bugz (Richard Pepple) and Lamont (Sule Rimi) banter and blast hip-hop music, much to the chagrin of their hungover neighbour Gerry (Jasper Britton), whose attempts to quiet them lead to spirited arguments. From the outset, the characters display a natural rapport, brimming with sharp humour and palpable tension.

The dynamic shifts as Val (Tiffany Gray), a struggling rapper, discusses Bugz’s sexuality with Gerry, who insists Bugz is gay—a claim that surprises Val. Meanwhile, Gerry introduces Lamont to Nancy (Emma Kingston), a telemarketer and passionate rapper with a flair for writing. Nancy’s rap musical about Amelia Earhart catches Bugz’s admiration but draws Lamont’s mockery, sparking questions about cultural appropriation and authenticity in hip-hop. The ensuing rap battle between Nancy and Val not only showcases their talent but also highlights the challenges women face in the male-dominated music scene.

The play’s characters are rich and multifaceted. Nancy and Val, though less central, offer a refreshing optimism, embodying the pursuit of creativity in a competitive industry. Lamont’s bravado belies his insecurities as a once-great emcee struggling to stay relevant. Bugz, the standout character, grapples with internalised homophobia and grief for his ailing mother while challenging Lamont’s outdated views. His complexity is compelling, though moments where he edges toward deeper vulnerability—such as his near-intimacy with Gerry—feel slightly underexplored.

Tom Piper’s set design grounds the story in reality, presenting a half-sliced five-storey building that offers glimpses into Bugz’s and Gerry’s homes, with the stoop at its heart. This simple but effective design ensures the focus remains on the characters’ interactions. Tony Gayle’s sound design adds richness, weaving music into the narrative seamlessly. From Gerry’s record player crooning ‘Getting to Know You’ to Pete Rock’s ‘Shut ’Em Down’ on Lamont’s beatbox, each choice enriches the atmosphere and adds layers to every character.

The Purists leaves the audience reflecting on themes of identity, growth, and community. It invites us to question who we are, what we stand for, and how we engage with those different from us. Balancing humour and heart, this play ensures laughter while also provoking thought.

A sharp, heartfelt exploration of identity and authenticity.

**** Four stars

Reviewed by: Aleeza Humranwala

The Purists plays at London’s Kiln Theatre until 21 December, with further info here.