Strong performances shine through a simple storytelling of life and legacy
As part of Theatre Peckham’s “Young Gifted and Black” season, a series of work celebrating young Black talent, Larry Coke’s thought-provoking production explores the life of Henrietta Lacks in the days leading up to her diagnosis of cervical cancer. The play is a musical reimagining of her life, set primarily in the time of racial segregation in America and aims to humanise Henrietta by exploring her relationships and the connections that shaped her.
As I entered the theatre, the soothing sounds of jazz welcomed me, immediately setting a reflective mood. The minimalist set design, consisting mainly of basic chairs, might have seemed sparse at first, but it created an intimate atmosphere. The lighting played a crucial role in conveying emotion, particularly the blue hues that hinted at sadness, perfectly framing Henrietta’s story. We meet the charming character of Ms. Caledonia Louise played by Charli Gold in the setting of a vibrant jazz club, where she captivates the audience with her confident and sultry performance. Through heartfelt moments, we witness Henrietta’s interactions with her husband, David Lacks (played by Ronald Samm), and her best friend, Annie May (played by Orgena Rose). These relationships are central to the narrative, providing a glimpse into Henrietta’s life beyond her medical legacy.
Jasmine Flicker’s portrayal of Henrietta Lacks was a highlight of the performance. Her passion and depth brought a comforting energy to the stage, making Henrietta’s struggles and triumphs feel palpable. Alongside her, Orgena Rose delivered a standout performance as well. Their bond became the emotional core of the story, highlighting the profound friendship that shaped Henrietta’s life. This often overshadowed the relationship we saw with her husband. The way their voices intertwined in song was truly touching, creating moments that celebrated both their characters and their shared experiences. The music by Christopher Neill and songs, written by Raine Coke-Clark, were exceptionally well done, with lyrics that beautifully captured the emotions of the characters.
However, while the vocal performances were impressive, the narrative itself felt underwhelming. The play struggled to delve into the complexities of Henrietta’s life until the very end. While the final act provided essential context, it was a bit too late to fully engage the audience. Things didn’t truly gain momentum until after the intermission, which left me wondering about the pacing and overall structure of the story. One element that stood out, though not always favourably, was the transitions between scenes. While the creative team attempted to maintain a fluidity with jazz and blues interludes, the abrupt shifts often pulled me out of the moment. Sometimes, the incorporation of what sounded like news announcements to bridge the gaps did not feel cohesive. Although these elements were intended to keep us grounded in the historical context, they sometimes felt like distractions rather than enhancements.
In the end, The Immortal Henrietta Lacks is a play that showcases exceptional singing and talent, and while it delivered moments of brilliance, it also left me wanting more. The music and performances shone brightly, but they were somewhat dimmed by a lack of depth in the storytelling. While Larry Coke’s interest in Henrietta Lacks is clear, it leaves you wanting to dive deeper into her story afterward to uncover the layers of her incredible legacy.
Review by Temi Akande