Queer and Black as f*ck. This was all I knew about A Strange Loop prior to walking into one of the most anticipated performances of the year to arrive on to the London stage.
The musical was indeed unapologetically both of these things- and so much more. It’s a fantastic and yet challenging ride, with extremely frank language throughout; the script doesn’t hold back.
The performance follows the life of Usher (played by Kyle Ramar Freeman- a captivating lead) a Black, queer plus-sized student, who explores his big New York dream of writing a musical revolving around his life, whilst hoping to decipher the permanent chaos inside of his head.
We’re confronted with ghosts from his past, conversations left unspoken and unhealed wounds.
The other talented four members of the cast portray a variety of figures from Usher’s life, from fictional figures of his imagination, to troubled family members from his past. The cast dynamic is simply electric, and manage to tackle complex and at times heavy subjects in a somewhat fun and yet brutally honest manner.
I need to give a special shout out to the designer of the show, Arnuflo Maldonado, for creating such a feast for the eyes during the performance.
Beyond that, the show was entirely American in its essence. With very specific references from Tyler Perry to Poppeyes, I wonder whether a lot of this will be lost in a British audience- non the less it made me appreciate the authenticity of the show’s writing all the more.
I’m sure that Usher’s story will resonate with many.
Ultimately, whether you chose to love it or hate it, there’s nothing out there quite like A Strange Loop.
At the Barbican
Unti 9th September
