On Saturday night, I had the privilege of experiencing Play On! at the Lyric Theatre, an electrifying reimagining of Twelfth Night set against the jazz-fuelled world of 1940s Harlem. This all-Black production from Michael Buffong, Artistic Director of Talawa Theatre Company, is a feast for the senses, filled with music, movement and the timeless brilliance of Duke Ellington’s compositions. Under Michael Buffong’s expert direction, the band takes centre stage in ULTZ’s sleek, minimalist set design, allowing the rhythm and melodies to drive the story.
At the heart of the story is Vy (Tsemaye Bob-Egbe), a gifted songwriter from Mississippi who is determined to break into the Harlem music scene. But she quickly learns from her uncle Jester (Llewellyn Jamal) that “this is a man’s world” where women do not compose. Undeterred, she reinvents herself as Vyman, using her music to navigate this male-dominated world. Meanwhile, The Duke (Earl Gregory), the club’s celebrated but creatively blocked songwriter, struggles with his feelings for its star singer, Lady Liv (Koko Alexandra). Vy’s secret songs lead to a whirlwind of mistaken identities, romantic entanglements, and soul-stirring melodies.
Bob-Egbe shines in her role as Vy, showcasing her character’s drive and heart through her singing and acting. Alexandra’s voice, particularly in the song “Mood Indigo,” brings depth and charm to her character. Jamal’s portrayal of Jester, a two-timing, sharp-witted trickster, is magnetic, his comedic timing matched by dazzling dance ability. The cast fully inhabits their roles, creating a strong emotional connection with the audience. This profoundly moving and immersive experience will stay with you long after the curtains close.
What makes Play On! truly special is how seamlessly it blends music, dance, and storytelling. Choreographer Kenrick ‘H2O’ Sandy MBE mixes jazz and street dance to create an exhilarating experience, making each dance number exciting and vibrant. The performance radiates joy and perfectly fits Talawa’s theme of celebrating Black Joy.
Of course, the true heartbeat of Play On! is its music. It features Duke Ellington’s incredible works, which do more than accompany the actors—they enhance the characters and emotions throughout the story. The live band is outstanding, bringing each song to life. This isn’t just a jazz musical; it also weaves in elements of blues and soul, creating a rich and diverse musical experience.
Buffong’s direction ensures that every facet of the production—casting, musical execution, and dramatic pacing—is perfectly polished. Every moment in the show feels necessary, and the performances are genuinely heartfelt. This unique blend of jazz, street dance, and narrative makes Play On! a truly one-of-a-kind musical experience.
Whether or not you consider yourself a fan of musicals, Play On! is a production not to be missed. This is more than just an evening of theatre—it’s a celebration of artistry, passion, and the enduring magic of jazz.
On a personal note, in 1985, Yvonne Brewster and I—then in my role as the GLC Ethnic Arts Officer—discussed her directing The Black Jacobins: Toussaint L’Ouverture, and the San Domingo Revolution, a play by CLR James, for the GLC Black Experience Arts Programme. She founded Talawa Theatre Company in 1986 to bring this play to life. Nearly 40 years later, Talawa remains a beacon of Black British theatre, and Play On! is a testament to its enduring legacy.
About Parminder Vir OBE
Over a 40-year distinguished career, Parminder Vir OBE has passionately devoted her life to amplifying untold narratives and resourcing the skills and imagination of underserved communities. At the core of her mission lies an unshakable faith in the transformative potential of ideas and stories to ignite profound change. Her diverse expertise spans African entrepreneurship, an impressive portfolio as an award-winning film and television producer, and unwavering advocacy for the arts and culture.
Currently, Parminder Vir lends her strategic insights as an Advisory Board Member of Mamamoni Limited and HelpMum, and contributes as a Narrative Advisor at Mustard Venture Agency. She is also a director at Zikora Media & Arts Cultural Heritage Initiative, an inspirational cultural institution for Africa.
In her prior role as CEO of the Tony Elumelu Foundation and Advisory Board Member, she masterminded and executed a comprehensive entrepreneurship programme, impacting over 10,000 African entrepreneurs across 54 African nations from 2014 to 2021. Her tireless commitment to championing entrepreneurship as the keystone for Africa’s social and economic advancement continues to be a resounding call to action.
