The Soho Theatre in London presents “A to B,” a coming-of-age play by Tia-Renee Mullings. The narrative unfolds through two distinct yet interwoven monologues, featuring Brianna (played by Zakiyyah Dean) and Armani (played by Sheyi Cole). Both characters are preparing for a blind date that holds the potential to significantly alter their lives. The play captures the palpable nerves, fervent hope, and eager anticipation that accompany getting ready for a crucial romantic encounter.
Set up by mutual acquaintances, Brianna and Armani have only a photograph of their potential match to guide them. This premise will resonate deeply with anyone navigating the complexities of modern dating in the era of dating apps. However, the tension generated by this anxiety, while a strong starting point, struggles to maintain its momentum throughout the play’s 80-minute duration.
For Brianna and Armani, it seems that no matter how meticulously they plan, things invariably go awry. Brianna’s carefully selected outfit is stolen and ruined by her younger sisters, a particularly distressing event for a perfectionist. To compound her woes, an unfortunate incident involving water guns completely devastates her hairstyle. Simultaneously, Armani misses his barber appointment, resulting in what is described as the worst haircut of his life.
As the play progresses, this continuous stream of unfortunate events begins to feel somewhat predictable. The narrative starts to feel like it’s treading water, with the characters seemingly stuck in a loop of escalating mishaps.
English Translation
The Soho Theatre in London presents “A to B,” a coming-of-age play by Tia-Renee Mullings. The narrative unfolds through two distinct yet interwoven monologues, featuring Brianna (played by Zakiyyah Dean) and Armani (played by Sheyi Cole). Both characters are preparing for a blind date that holds the potential to significantly alter their lives. The play captures the palpable nerves, fervent hope, and eager anticipation that accompany getting ready for a crucial romantic encounter.
Set up by mutual acquaintances, Brianna and Armani have only a photograph of their potential match to guide them. This premise will resonate deeply with anyone navigating the complexities of modern dating in the era of dating apps. However, the tension generated by this anxiety, while a strong starting point, struggles to maintain its momentum throughout the play’s 80-minute duration.
For Brianna and Armani, it seems that no matter how meticulously they plan, things invariably go awry. Brianna’s carefully selected outfit is stolen and ruined by her younger sisters, a particularly distressing event for a perfectionist. To compound her woes, an unfortunate incident involving water guns completely devastates her hairstyle. Simultaneously, Armani misses his barber appointment, resulting in what is described as the worst haircut of his life.
As the play progresses, this continuous stream of unfortunate events begins to feel somewhat predictable. The narrative starts to feel like it’s treading water, with the characters seemingly stuck in a loop of escalating mishaps.