Description
‘Mandem’
A collective noun for a bunch of boys or men, particularly your own group of mates.
Ajani can talk. He can host parties, talk to girls, charm any living being. However, he finds it hard to express himself to the people he cares about the most. When he dies and gets stuck in Limbo, he is given an ultimatum: “Learn how to ‘properly’ communicate or remain here forever”. Ajani takes on the quest and embarks on a poetic journey of discovery, unlearning and healing.
‘Rhythm and flow’
‘Before I Go’ runs with a live drummer who acts as the pulse. When expressing himself, Ajani jumps in between verse and prose electrifying the ethereal space.
In Ajani’s reflection, he teaches us not be afraid to express ourselves even with the many barriers we may face.
Focussing on being black, male and working class.
Although ‘Before I Go’ shares a universal message, ‘Before I Go’ is for the Mandem.
Content warnings: Death, mentions of Violence.
Production warnings: Flashing Lights, Haze, Explosion, Loud Music.
See 2 Housemates Festival shows for £25 or book 3 shows for £35. Simply book all shows in the same transaction and the discount will be automatically applied when checking out online.
Housemate: Tobi King Bakare
Tobi King Bakare is an actor and writer, most known for Temple S1+2 (2021, Sky One), Cursed (2020, Netflix) and I May Destroy You (2020, BBC1). As a writer, he is currently in development with Sky Studios for an original 8 part series. He is also currently writing for Lakeside Pictures The Big House Theatre and Blueprint Arts.
Tobi trained part-time at Raaw London and many other theatre companies such as the National Youth Theatre, Open Door etc.
Creative Team
Writer and Performer: Tobi King Bakare
Saxophonist: Lewis Daniel
Drummer: Tobi Adewumi
Director: Ozioma Ihesiene
Producer: Amaarah Roze
Movement Director: Aruken
Lighting Designer: Ezra Mortimer
Stage Manager: Justin Treadwell
