Grief is an interesting process. It throws up a whole heap of emotions, and tests even the strongest of relationships. It’s a process made even more complex for those of us who are part of the Caribbean diaspora. When a loved one dies at ‘home’, there can be all sorts of logistical problems. Add that to the emotional turmoil of any bereavement, and we are left with a big bowl of anguish.
Devised and directed by Belgrade Theatre’s Creative Director, Corey Campbell, ‘BIG AUNTY’, the first home-produced show of the 2023 Spring Season, is a play that takes us on this journey.
Touching on themes surrounding relationships, parenting and safeguarding, it not only highlights and challenges stereotypes, but also raises issues that cross generational and cultural borders.
The show is relatable, enjoyable, emotive, and 'real'.
The innovative set design by Claire Winfield seamlessly takes us through an airport, on a flight to Jamaica, and finally to the grassy hill where Big Aunty is laid to rest.
We never meet Big Aunty, but through the eyes of the three children she raised, we learn about both her grace and her flaws.
Photo credit: Nicola Young Photography ©
Sean, who is in the midst of ‘the biggest interview of his life’ when the show starts, is brought to life brilliantly by Keiran Hamilton-Amos (Grimeboy); Naomi, the sharp-tongued peacemaker, is played by the multi-talented Alexia McIntosh (SIX the Musical); and Corey Campbell (Fighting Irish, SeaView, Freeman) perfectly embodies the fiery protector, Marcus.
Supported by a community choir* the three leads take us on a journey through the many stages of the grieving process in a funny and heartfelt way.
The overall consensus from audience members, particularly those from an African-Caribbean background, has been that the show is relatable, enjoyable, emotive, and 'real'.
Big Aunty is very much a ‘Black’ show, in that we experience the story through a very specific lens, that of a Caribbean (in this case, Jamaican) family. Those of us who have ever been to a Nine Night celebration know that going from tears and arguments one second to merriment and dancing the next, is a normal and expected part of the proceedings. We all know a character like ‘Uncle Hubert’, and have all been entertained by the melodrama of an ‘Aunty Mandy’.
Photo credit: Nicola Young Photography ©
However, it is ultimately a narrative about the universal themes of death, grief, and the breakdown of family relationships; issues that we can all (directly or indirectly) be affected by regardless of our cultural background. At some point in life we will all inevitably experience the effects that the loss of a significant family member can bring about.
This isn’t just Sean, Naomi and Marcus’ story, then, this is everyone’s story.
With a runtime of 1 hour and 8 mins, the play doesn’t have enough time to do a deep dive into the subjects raised, and we are left wondering how Sean, Naomi and Marcus move on after Big Aunty’s funeral. Are they able to successfully reconcile their differences? Do they drift apart once again, or will their collective grief enable them to move forward in unity.
Whilst some may feel this makes the play feel incomplete, I think that being left with questions is a good thing. It ends up being less about the fictional characters and more about us in the real world. The play holds up a mirror, forcing us to look at our own families - the issues, the unspoken truths, the unresolved disputes - and to ask how we can tend to the weeds in our own gardens, hopefully BEFORE grief forces us to.
Photo credit: Nicola Young Photography ©
If you're looking for things to do in Coventry, BIG AUNTY runs from April 24th until May 6th 2023 at Belgrade Theatre, Coventry.
Age recommendation 14+