News

Theatre show in Camden explores human connection through colonialism

A returning play opening at the Etcetera Theatre in Camden aims to tackle trauma and identity through spoken word, music, and physical theatre.

Presented earlier this year at Riverside Studios and the Camden Fringe Festival, Fragments opens its doors for a short stint between 15 and 17 November.

The play follows Ifemelu as she reflects on generational trauma throughout African history as well as the bonds that shape us today.

A woman wearing a headwrap, tank top, and shorts performs on stage with a solemn expression, holding her hands out in a gesture of openness. She is lit by a spotlight against a dark background.
Pearl Ada as Ifemelu in Fragments. Image credit: Catherine Mieses

Writer, producer, and star of Fragments Pearl Ada said: “It’s really how different fragments of our lives make us up.

“It’s not just lines, it’s physical, it’s dance, it’s ancestral, and it’s something you don’t often see in mainstream theatre.

“This is an African story told through an African’s lived experience rather than one told through a diasporic lens.”

In addition to Ada, behind Fragments is an all-global majority creative team featuring Cedric Dumornay as Òtíḿkpú and director Catherine Mieses.

Audiences who have seen previous performances of the play have described it as evocative and visceral.

Ada continued: “Ifemelu embodies joy that’s been passed down by her ancestors and even though the world isn’t made for her joy as a black woman, she still carries it.

“Until there’s a shift in our reality, we need to keep telling these stories.

“I want you to feel the beauty but I want you to sit in that discomfort because that’s what pushes us to grow.”

Three people, two women and one man, stand together and smile at the camera on a stage set with bookshelves and props. The woman in the middle is wearing a black dress, while the other two are dressed casually.
Director Catherine Mieses, left, Pearl Ada, middle, and Cedric Dumornay, right, after a Fragments performance at Riverside Studios. Image credit: @fragmentsplay

Tickets to see Fragments are available at: https://www.citizenticket.com/events/etcetera-theatre/fragments/

Featured image credit: Catherine Mieses

Join the discussion

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Related Articles