BETWEEN RIVERSIDE AND CRAZY
Image credit — Johan Persson
Between Riverside and Crazy by Stephen Adly Guirgis
After dedicating 30 years of service, you'd expect that your commitment to the police force as a Black man would hold some value. Instead, it's been reduced to an eight-year battle with the city, whilst your loved ones question your sanity.
Following its successful Off-Broadway run in 2014 and 2015, followed by a Broadway debut in 2022, Stephen Adly Guirgis' Between Riverside and Crazy had its UK premiere at Hampstead Theatre where audiences were treated to a vibrant revival of this Pulitzer Prize-winning drama.
Centred around Walter ‘Pops’ Washington played impeccably by Danny Sapani; Between Riverside and Crazy is a play about all of us. It explores the struggles we face to survive, the demons we wrestle with, the relationships we try to distance ourselves from, and the lengths we go to for those we love. Once a member of the NYPD, Walter— nicknamed 'Pops' by his son Junior (Martins Imhangbe) and referred to as 'Dad' by Oswaldo (Sebastian Orozco) and Lulu (Tiffany Gray)—is embroiled in an ongoing lawsuit against the NYPD.
After a tragic encounter with a white rookie officer while off duty, Walter endured being shot six times, with each bullet allegedly echoing a racial slur from the officer. Over the course of eight years posy incident, Walter has faced a series of hardships: losing his wife, battling eviction threats from his landlord and dealing with the troublesome actions of his co-tenants Junior, Oswaldo, and Lulu.
Walter emerges as a formidable, albeit unconventional, father figure—a blend of fierce love, simmering anger, and sharp wit evident in every encounter. He commands attention as a skilled cook who has a liking for whiskey, consuming it throughout the day. Initially depicted in a wheelchair, which is later revealed to be a symbolic prop, Sapani's character is anchored by it, as it draws focus to his grief, unveiling the multifaceted layers of his suffering.
In a manner reminiscent of his portrayal in King Lear, Sapani solidifies his status as a theatrical leader. His seamless delivery and adaptation of Guirgis' script are remarkable, accompanied by impeccable comedic timing in his interactions with the diverse characters. Tiffany Gray shines in her portrayal of Lulu, Junior's girlfriend, as she captures the essence of a caring daughter and devoted girlfriend effortlessly, maintaining aspirations of becoming an accountant despite facing obstacles.
Under the direction of Michael Longhurst, the ensemble, featuring Judith Roddy as Detective Audrey O'Connor, once Walter's rookie, and Daniel Lapaine as Lieutenant Dave Caro, seamlessly collaborate to deliver outstanding performances. Additionally, the play's utilisation of space deserves recognition, as every corner is explored to narrate the tale.
The play's most gripping aspect lies within its exploration of each character, revealing layers that spark confrontations within themselves, among each other, or with Walter. Ayesha Antoine's portrayal of the 'Church Lady' particularly stands out, with her scene with Walter taking a surprising turn that may provoke discomfort. Despite this, all performances are consistently strong from start to finish.
The play authentically captures the essence of New York City, immersing the audience in its atmosphere with elements like smooth jazz, New York Knicks jerseys, and witty cop jokes, evoking a palpable sense of being in Manhattan. Themes of grief, complex parental relationships, and the pursuit of truth weigh heavily throughout the narrative. Despite its weighty themes, the ensemble skilfully weaves together the intricate elements of the story, maintaining a lively and humorous ambiance that keeps audiences captivated throughout the 180-minute dramedy.
Between Riverside and Crazy brims with chaos yet unfurls profound layers within, making for an exhilarating and enjoyable theatrical experience.
By Eniola Edusi
★★★★☆
Between Riverside and Crazy is showing at Hampstead Theatre until 15th June 2024.
