This was a fascinating evening - fascinating in both the story that it told and the rendition by Kathryn Hunter. Based on the Polish journalist Ruszard Kapuscinski's interviews of the aged staff Haile Selassie, the evening brought to life the nature and the decline of the Ethiopian emperor's rule.
Kathryn Hunter slipped between the different characters by a simple adjustment of stance or dress (e.g., adding epaulets). It was a remarkable performance, supported by Temesgen Zeleke who played music to start with but gradually came out as one of the protesting students who took on the Emperor's regime.
The downfall and loss of touch of the Emperor was well portrayed,as was the loyalty of staff who unfortunately shielded him from the truth having been inculcated with the primacy of obedience.
All in all an excellent evening and one that was a surprise. as I knew nothing really about the play apart from the publicity. It rightly, in my view, got good reviews.
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