A Review of J. C.De Grafts play Sons and daughters staged at the university of Ghana, School of Performing art drama studio from 6th to 9th June, 2024
Synopsis of the play
J. C. De Graft’s play “Sons and Daughters” represents a prototypical portrayal of African setting wherein the older generation have a strong influence over the younger generation’s life choices. The play is centered around James refusal to change his mind on dictating the career path of his children, disregarding their evident disinterest.However, the timely success of Awere’s art exhibition intervenes, freeing Maanan and Aaron from their fathers predetermined plans. The play tactically employs dramatic devices such as conflict, irony and intergenerational themes illustrating the tension between traditional values and youthful aspiration. James’ misplaced trust in lawyer Bonu further explains the complexities of familial relationships. Fast forward , the University of Ghana, school of performing arts drama studio in collaboration with Fifi Coleman Production and staged the play from June 6th to 9th, 2024. This review will provide a critical analysis of performance on June 7th, 2024,examining the theatrical element i.e . Acting, costume and makeup, set design, props, light and sound and overall performance.
The first theatrical element I will examine is acting. Fifi Coleman played James . He performed well only that his tone didn’t quite fit the character’s background as a Transport driver. Someone may mistaken him for a lawyer due to his accent. Hannah was quite excellent but her pronunciation didn’t match her character as an ” illiterate”. She sounded more educated than ever. For Maanan, I will just say she was outstanding, and her mannerism suited the role perfectly. George was good but seemed too old for the role. And now to Aaron , He was also interesting and convincing to watch though his lines are outmoded. I doubt anyone in this current economic crisis will prefer a job just for interest sake only. Now to Awere, I feel he didn’t quite fit his role . I suppose that the actor who played lawyer bonu would have better fit for James’ character using the physique and delivery. For Fosuwaa, I suppose she could have been more effective if she was given a different characterization. Her treatment didn’t sink well for me. I believe if she had stuck to the middle aged Auntie and became more vibrant and troublesome as well as nosing into the affairs of her brother, that would have been super great. But with characterization as an old woman didn’t really jell for me . Nevertheless, the message was still put across as trouble maybe that is to mean older women are troublesome in the African setting.
Set design.
The set effectively depicted a simple African home, with blue painting of the house of the Ofosu and nostalgic elements like tablecloth covered chairs and radio. The set really communicated the setting in post colonial era and the plights that came with it.
Costume and makeup
The costume and makeup complemented the actors’ looks and the makeup was generally good, except for lawyer bonu’s grey hair, which made him appear older than his personality.
Props
The actors effectively utilized the props provided, adding a touch of realism to the performance. The vintage radio, in particular, was a nice touch, evoking nostalgic when Aaron and George Turned it on. However, I noticed that Aaron’s admission letter was empty, which was a bit distracting. Additionally,lawyer Bonu failed to close the whiskey bottle after pouring himself a glass, which seemed like an odd choice ,I’m not sure what the director intended to convey with action or may be it was a mistake
Light and sound
The light and sound effectively set the mood and tone of the performance, creating a calm atmosphere that intensified when tension arose.
Before, I forget the audience reaction was great. They really enjoyed and made the auditorium lively especially the scene where James caught his bosom friend Lawyer Bonu red handed.
Overall the play was simple yet effective and beautiful, and I’m glad the director maintained it’s simplicity without overdoing it. I love the audience engagement and enthusiasm with some even recognizing the cast’s dedication to their lines. Overall I will rate the play 8/10, great collaboration and great treatment of the play.
Written by Miriam Afoley Laryea, BA Theatre Arts,UEW.
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