Far Gone: Brixton House – Theatre Review
Okumu’s life is violently upended when he is kidnapped by the Lord’s Resistance Army (LRA) and forced into a perverted holy crusade, his harrowing journey unfolding in a visceral and …
Black News 
Okumu’s life is violently upended when he is kidnapped by the Lord’s Resistance Army (LRA) and forced into a perverted holy crusade, his harrowing journey unfolding in a visceral and utterly immersive production.
As soon as we enter the auditorium, we are transported into the brutal world of Ugandan child soldiers, as writer and actor John Rwothomack delivers a masterclass in physical theatre. Seamlessly transitioning between three main characters, he inhabits each with remarkable precision and intensity, from the timid Okumu to the terrifying Commandant.
We feel every step of this horrific journey and, thanks to the chilling soundscape created by Lee Steffen, the realism is further heightened.
In just one hour, Rwothomack traverses vast emotional and narrative ground, taking the audience on a vivid, occasionally even funny, yet ultimately painful journey of survival. It may not be a feel-good experience, but it is certainly memorable and will stay with you long after the final bow.
Content warnings
- Depictions of extreme violence/death
- Gunfire and battle sounds
- Depictions of child abuse/trauma
- Discussion of displacement, grief/mourning
- Discussion of religion
More info
Far Gone at Brixton House
Book tickets here
Runs until: February 21st, 19:30
Brixton House
385 Coldharbour Lane SW9 8GL
Words by Robert Tavernier
Images by Smart Banda courtesy of Brixton House
