A Rollercoaster of Laughter, Chaos, and Surprising Twists
Brenda’s Got A Baby at the New Diorama Theatre is a wild ride that keeps the audience guessing, but not always in the best way. A mix of comedic chaos and serious societal issues, Jessica Hagan’s play, unfortunately, struggles to find a clear identity, much like its protagonist, Ama.
The play kicks off with Ama, played with magnetic energy by Anita-Joy Uwajeh, expressing her desire for motherhood before hitting the big 3-0. The first half, however, feels like a meandering journey through Ama’s relationships and comparisons with her seemingly perfect sister. The crux of the play only begins to emerge after the intermission, leaving the audience wondering why it took so long to reach this point.
Under the direction of Anastasia Osei-Kuffour, the performances are a mix of big, broad, and at times, goofy. The characters, despite their quirks, lack depth, and the transitions between scenes feel detached. The set, designed by TK Hay, adds to the confusion with its rainbow-painted, adult creche appearance that doesn’t quite align with the unfolding drama.
The play attempts to tackle significant issues, such as the Black sperm donor shortage and the challenges faced by black women in the healthcare system, but these themes feel glazed over rather than explored. The scattered delivery of statistics and sudden serious moments disrupt the overall flow, leaving the audience somewhat disoriented.
On the positive side, the performances are enjoyable, with Uwajeh stealing the spotlight with her bouncy, gesturing portrayal of Ama. The supporting cast, including Jahmila Heath and Edward Kagutuzi, bring their characters to life, even if the material they work with is chaotic.
Brenda’s Got A Baby is a departure from Hagan’s previous works, notably “Queens of Sheba,” and while credit is due for trying something different, the play’s identity crisis remains a stumbling block. The unexpected twists and soapy elements provide moments of entertainment, and Michelle Asante’s portrayal of Ama’s mother adds a much-needed emotional core to the narrative.
Brenda’s Got A Baby is a mix of laughter, chaos, and some genuinely surprising twists. However, the play struggles to find its footing, leaving the audience with a sense of disconnection and a desire for more substance amidst the farce. Perhaps, like its protagonist, the play needs more time to develop and define its purpose.