There are 88 keys on a piano and Anoushka Lucas plays them all beautifully.
Elephant written and performed by Anoushka Lucas comes back to the stage after its 2022 production. Lucas takes the audience on a captivating journey through the life of its protagonist, Lylah. The minimalist stage, adorned with bare wooden floors and a couple of rugs, serves as the backdrop for an element that cannot be ignored, one might say the elephant in the room, the central piano.
The narrative skillfully weaves through time, introducing us to Lylah in 1996, living in a council flat, mesmerized by the piano that dominates the living room where she shares her life. Fast forward to 2017, and we witness Lylah as a grown-up, her youthful naivety replaced by a sobering reality, where she often feels like she’s pretending.
Laura Howard’s storytelling, beautifully enhanced by the lighting, immediately draws the audience into Lylah’s world. Her quirky humour and lovable naivety make the young Lylah an endearing character, inviting us into her council flat. This classic coming-of-age story introduces the character of Leo, and the dynamics of dating, race, and social status start to influence their lives. The question arises: can the gaps between them ever be bridged?
The production excels in creating a synesthetic experience, where visual elements, music, and spoken words blend seamlessly. The narration seamlessly harmonizes with the songs, offering a multisensory treat.
While the youthful character of Lylah is well-defined, the transition to the older Lylah lacks some clarity, which could be a bit confusing for the audience. This is primarily due to the 20-year gap and the absence of significant changes in voice and body. Some marks on the floor indicating the year were helpful but could go unnoticed.
The production’s intended audience is somewhat ambiguous. At times, the performance feels somewhat scripted, leaving room for a deeper connection between the characters and the viewers. However, the power in the words, whether spoken or sung, remains a compelling aspect of the show.
Elephant subtly delves into political views, showcasing how children often voice their opinions without fully grasping their implications. The show manages to weave these themes into the storyline, creating a thought-provoking subtext.
The tempo between the two timelines in the story maintains a good balance.
Overall, Elephant by Anoushka Lucas offers a unique blend of humor, nostalgia, and thought-provoking moments, making it a worthwhile experience for those who appreciate a coming-of-age tale with a touch of social commentary.
Elephant will run until the 4th of November 2023 at The Bush Theatre.