Studio, Sheffield
Ryan Calais Cameron’s story of two young men who grew up together in care is flawed yet has a visceral rawness
A writer singled out as a future star, Ryan Calais Cameron (Typical) has produced a piece that feels more paradox than play. At 60 minutes it is too brief, yet in some ways it outstays its welcome. The dialogue can be so on the nose as to feel like a Twitter thread made flesh, while its visceral rawness and total authenticity hit you in the gut.
None of this negates the necessity of the play or the urgency of the writer’s voice. The slight story sees Lucas Button’s Harry at home, ready to celebrate his 18th birthday. A knock at the door brings Runaku (Justice Ritchie), a young Black British man whom Harry has always known as Roger. They grew up together in care – Harry due to abandonment, “Roger” due to bereavement. We’re given hints that white Harry has posted something regrettable online. We later hear the TikTok post in which he denounces white privilege and implies that he can’t be racist because his “best friend is Black”.
At the Studio, Sheffield, until 12 February. Then touring.
