Theatre / Review
Review: Destiny, Tobacco Factory Theatres
Florence Espeut-Nickless invites her audience to journey with Destiny, in her one-woman show performed at Tobacco Factory Theatres.
When entering the theatre room to Chingy’s Right Thurr, I knew that this show was going to speak my language. The playlist of songs united the audience as we waited, and the atmosphere felt like we were all on the town.
With a minimal set of neon lights, a chair and a just-do-it backpack, Espeut-Nickless single-handedly presents a weighted story, whilst simultaneously allowing us to warm to a stereotype that is often frowned upon.
is needed now More than ever
A victim of neglect and abuse, Destiny’s spirit is one that carries a hope which won’t be crushed by her life’s circumstances.
Espeut-Nickless successfully evokes our sympathies, and there were even personal moments of feeling like a parental figure towards her, wanting her to get back on track.
Not needing to transform into fresh characters before our eyes, she introduces the new voices through the simple art of narration, and we are right there with them in conversation.
Espeut-Nickless’ ability to subtly take us on her daily route (and the occasional detour) with the simple change of lighting was what made this show all the more impressive.
Florence Espeut-Nickless’ one-woman show ‘Destiny’ was at the Tobacco Factory Theatres from June 24-26 June – photo: Chelsea Cliff
I was captivated by the writing which was full of wit and maturity through an urban vernacular.
Yet this delightful and identifiable youthfulness also allowed a contrasting humour to sensibly dilute the brutality of the situation.
Destiny holds an important voice, and the play gives space for a perspective-shift, challenging the arrows of condemnation to those whose behavioural decisions are results of being a witness of the less fortunate life, to become a place of compassion.
Enchanting at parts, terrifying at others, Destiny is a beautifully well-rounded production, with an educational message for all ages and backgrounds.
Main photo: Chelsea Cliff
Read More: Review: Outlier, Bristol Old Vic
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