Now, I See is a successful combination of comedy and psychological exploration. Two brothers reunited after a life-changing incident, and their relationship is challenged by their different ways of dealing with loss. The sharp contrast between their personalities is a main source of humour and dramatic moments, which never fail to turn into an in-depth discussion about bonding and healing.
Kieron, the older brother, is portrayed as a strong-willed and disciplined man, whereas Dayo is outgoing, amiable, sometimes even childish. Their conversations, full of quarrels as well as sarcasm and jokes, not only drive the audience to laughter again and again but also illustrate how they attempt to navigate their relationship by accepting their differences. Dances and songs, interspersed among the dialogue, are not merely entertaining episodes but also serve as expressive means of engaging the audience in their shared memory.
But the witty conversation, exciting dancing and singing are only the surface of the show. In Now, I See, the characters have to face the most difficult moment and its aftermath in their life, especially their frustration and grudge against each other. The repression of feelings, as a coping system after the disaster, is exhibited in the control over the body, from working out, cleaning up to boxing. Oliver Alvin-Wilson’s acting demonstrates powerfully how keeping the physical order helps his character deal with emotional chaos.
However, the price of maintaining such order is to block out fragility, intimacy, and honest communication – everything crucial in keeping close to our loved ones. As dances and songs are frequently interrupted by the need to regain control and restore order, the two brothers never get to fully share their inner experiences and delve into their shared trauma. The lighting and sound effects work together to show the transition between the two states effectively.
The control over feelings and physical movement is the most important theme throughout the play, and it is only near the end that the characters liberate themselves from self-doubt, remorse, regret and dance freely. In dialogue with the motif of control, the use of water from the beginning to the end indicates the flow of emotions. When the two brothers finally embrace these emotions without the fear of being overwhelmed, they are cleansed, their connection restored. Now, I See is a moving story that shows life is not about fighting, but about feeling, forgiving, and bonding.
Now, I See is at Stratford East until 1 June 2024
