Revealed at the Tobbaco Factory Theatre is an engaging play exploring a range of topics from masculinity to racism, but it is also so much more. It features three men - Luther, his father Malcolm and his grandfather Sidney - as they take refuge at the family's Caribbean restaurant while riots erupt outside.
Stuck inside the restaurant, the men talk to each other and things that had never been said before are shared, changing their relationships forever. Emotions and feelings run high, but at the same time there also plenty of light-hearted and funny moments.
For me, one of the key highlights of the play is how it features an all-men cast and the implications this has. It explores masculinity and what it is like to be a man, while reflecting on relationships between men, which I feel is much more less common than relationships between women being explored.
Currently expecting my first child, I loved how Revealed made me reflect on what it means to be a parent. One of the most touching moments of the play for me was when Malcolm talks to his own father about his childhood and what he missed.
While exploring complicated family dynamics, Revealed is also about how three generations of the same family have different experiences of Britain and of being Black in Britain. Running in the background are the riots that are taking place after the death of a man in police custody.
The discussions of racism nowadays, particularly around the police, felt very fitting to our times. I also liked the stage, which is simple but effective, as it transports you to a typical Caribbean restaurant.
Split in two halves with a short break in between, I found the play to be captivating from the first scene, with the time flying. I love going to the theatre and I can honestly say this is one of the best plays I have seen recently. It is moving and powerful - Revealed is certainly a must-watch from the South Bristol theatre.
Revealed is at the Tobacco Factory Theatre until October 8. Tickets start at £12 and you can book here.
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