Nathan Powell, the newly appointed creative director at Liverpool Everyman and Playhouse, has brought a lively new play to the stage. Directed by Amanda Huxtable, the production, titled Takeaway, is a light-hearted and entertaining experience. Despite its somewhat loose structure, the play is brimming with heart and charm, promising to captivate audiences with its crowd-pleasing appeal.
The story revolves around Hyltons, a cherished Caribbean cafe run by the charismatic matriarch Carol and her two British-born daughters, Browning and Shelly. Located in the heart of Toxteth, the cafe faces the threat of gentrification, sparking turmoil within the community. As young locals take action against the encroaching changes, both rioting and leading protest, tensions rise and the neighborhood becomes embroiled in conflict.
At the core of the narrative lies a poignant family drama, exploring the generational clashes between Shelly and her mother, who immigrated from Jamaica as a child. Viewers familiar with classic sitcoms like Desmond’s and Goodness Gracious Me will find comfort in the familiar setting of the play. Noteworthy is the standout performance by Wayne Rollins as the charismatic chef, injecting humor and energy into the production.
Echoing works like Elmina’s Kitchen, Takeaway offers a lighter, more comedic take on societal issues, occasionally losing its footing as it rushes towards its conclusion. However, Powell’s debut play is a promising start, sure to leave audiences with a smile on their faces as they reflect on the heartfelt and humorous journey they’ve experienced
Read the full article from The Guardian here: Read More
