Because, a daring single-hander written and performed by Hassan Govia, questions death, life and all in between. Though it really leaves the audience asking, “Because what?” So many aspects are left unknown at the end of this show. Jade is a young man undergoing therapy sessions, though he is haunted by the death of his friend, also named Jade. The piece contemplates the importance of death and its danger throughout, highlighting the mental health turmoil which such pain brings.
Despite the play’s enthralling title and premise, the writing of this piece does not do Hassan Govia’s performance justice. The piece attempts to tie too many pieces of string together: storylines become muddied due to the similarity of names of characters and their brief appearances. Govia, in Because, offers a raw, emotional performance, though one which failed to connect with me, as an audience member, due to the limited attachment to the protagonist themself. Little payback was offered for the audience.
There is no denying that Because provides an emotionally effective plot basis, one which is relatable for so many and sparks fresh conversations, though the complexity of the sound design makes the piece even harder to comprehend. The conversations do feel genuine, though blurred conversations with a therapist become amalgamated with conversations with the speaker’s inner self. Perhaps this is an interesting perspective: presenting the entrapment of the speaker both within their own mind and within the therapist’s rigid questioning, although this fails to become clear and leaves the piece muddled.
Truly, Because was refreshing, using an inspiring tone for the subject. Govia also portrays the character with intensity and great rigour. Passion oozed from their portrayal of the character, which was infectious for the audience. Similarly, Because managed to fulfil a goal in making the audience fearful, uncomfortable and bleak. The audience was disquieted, though this unfortunately was not enough to make the show effective.
The writing on this show is what makes it drag behind and leaves the audience questioning the method and aim of the story itself.
