Oscar Wilde's 'An Ideal Husband' gets a much-deserved, gleefully camp makeover in this production, and it's a breath of fresh air. The play, set in the late 19th century, explores the theme of political corruption, but with a modern twist that feels both relevant and entertaining. The all-Black cast brings a unique energy to the story, subverting expectations and adding a layer of cultural commentary that is both insightful and hilarious.
The central character, Sir Robert Chiltern, is portrayed with a winning earnestness by Chiké Okonkwo. His character's past sin of selling a cabinet secret to a baron is a reminder of the 'cash for questions' scandals that plague modern politics. However, the play's exploration of this theme feels somewhat muted, perhaps because the political story doesn't quite pack the punch it could. Despite this, the production excels in other areas.
The second half of the play is a wild ride, with a full, frothy, and fun embodiment of Wilde's farce. The production takes inspiration from the National Theatre's campy 'The Importance of Being Earnest', but with a distinct Caribbean twist. The cast sports plummy accents, colourful headscarves, and Caribbean tones, with Jamael Westman as the fabulously louche Viscount Arthur Goring. The performance is a delightful blend of camp and sophistication, highlighting the ludicrousness of the dissolute, aristocratic gang and their outdated mores.
The soundtrack is a modernizing touch, with songs by DJ Luck & MC Neat, Ms Dynamite, and Ezra Collective, set to super choreography. Rajha Shakiry's costumes are a feast for the eyes, wavering between period and modern, and are both outrageous and elegant. The play features strong women, such as the powerful and self-determining Mrs. Cheveley, though Aurora Perrineau's portrayal of the villain is somewhat wooden.
Tiwa Lade as Mabel Chiltern is a standout performance, embodying the clever minx that Wilde so often wrote about. The camped-up nature of the production is particularly touching when considering the charge of gross indecency that Wilde faced in his lifetime. This production is a flamboyant celebration of queerness, a fitting tribute to the playwright's legacy.
In my opinion, this production of 'An Ideal Husband' is a must-see. It takes a classic work and breathes new life into it, offering a fresh perspective on political corruption and a delightful exploration of cultural and gender identity. The all-Black cast brings a unique and much-needed voice to the story, making it a truly special and thought-provoking experience.
