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‘Ghost Boy’ tells the story of Jamal, feared youth gang leader of the Lemonade estate, and of Dennis, a man whose purpose as the superhero ‘Fly Man’ is to catch law breaking youths so they get what they deserve. As the two become unlikely allies, they are unaware that what entwines them slowly closer together is something that neither of them can escape from nor forget.
I was blown away by the talent shown by Tachia Newall (Jamal), recognisable from Waterloo road, his acting, singing, rapping and dancing skills had me in complete awe. Also mentionable is the mesmerising hip-hop dancing shown by Courtney Hayles (Michael/Ghost Boy) whose fluidity was breath taking and even more impressive, with it being performed in a mask.
There was a remarkable use of animation and projection, with doodles and shadows used to great effect, highlighting the action on stage, and not in anyway subtracting from it.
The on stage music and sound, provided by Hannah Marshall on the cello and Hobbit, the beatboxing extraordinaire, was completely appropriate and fitting with the action, and used to it’s full potential to achieve great effects.
The lighting successfully kept to the atmosphere of the piece, especially in the nightmare sequence, where ultraviolet and flashing lights amplified Jamal’s horror at being terrorised by the ‘Beasties’.
This performance is extremely relevant to the youths of today, who would both enjoy it and learn from it. It’s serious, funny, saddening and in some ways, beautiful. Although not suitable for under 13s, due to some explicit language, I urge anyone over that age to go and watch it. You might even be inspired to take up hip-hop dance.
Lori Thurston
East Bergholt High School
29th March 2010 |