To some, successfully writing a one act, 65-minute production filled with themes of dual heritage, racial identity issues, mental health and family resentment (amongst others) may seem like an impossible task. However, Marble Cake, co-written and performed by Olivia Penhallow and Nathaniel Allen, is a rollercoaster of emotion, naturalism and a need for understanding.

The play opens with a messy living room in South London, where Kumi (Allen) is struggling to get comfortable. I’m not entirely sure whether the length of time we observe this scene before the action starts is intentional or whether it was because the sound technician ran into the space 6 minutes late, but either way, this voyeuristic approach into Kumi’s mindset works. As an onlooker, it is equally uncomfortable but also relatable to someone who has struggled.

The story continues with Kumi’s estranged sister, Keisha (Penhallow) returning to visit her family home after moving to Birmingham some years ago. What follows is a tennis match of banter, bickering and brawls between the pair, with each trying to explain to other the reasoning behind the decisions they have made.

It is clear from the off that the play is written by the pair due to the impressive naturalism of the piece. Both performers give a realistic depiction of a broken family bond- usually down to lack of communication, out of fear of being abandoned. Although parts of the book feel contrived, the short piece allows the flow to be predominantly maintained. A rogue interpretive dance sequence is unnecessary and takes away from the naturalism when it is clear at that point from Allen’s stellar performance where Kumi’s headspace is at. Similarly, although the nostalgic dancing between the siblings brings some warmth to the hard-hitting piece, it lasts a little longer than needed and begins to feel fabricated. This being said, the bond the two performers have is clear; particularly when overstepping each other’s lines has the unusual advantage of giving an air of improvisation- when in fact it is having the knowledge of the full script working in both of their favours.

Although a small audience for this evening’s production, the diversity in the room is sadly something you do not tend to experience in a lot of theatres- so if the intent is to diversify audiences, then the talented pair achieve their goal. On a deeper note, this play has and will continue to inspire people to communicate- even for those who can’t necessarily relate to the themes portrayed. An emotional but relevant and authentic piece of theatre that should not be missed.

Marble Cake will play two more evenings at The Hope Street Theatre in Liverpool on 11th & 12th October 2024. Tickets and information can be found here.

Gifted in exchange for an honest review.

Photography courtesy of the production.