Review: Communion (Bush Theatre)

Review by Beth Bowden

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Communion invites us to have a seat at the table - and we’re having a potluck. The show created with and performed by the Bush Young Company is about sharing food and stories, both of which act as a bridge between ‘culture and country’. We are warmly invited in as the performers set the table, and we begin the meal together.  

Directed by Katie Greenall, it’s a celebration of being together: of the community formed in this theatre, with this group of people, and all the history, culture and food they share with each other. Why do we cook for others? When can you use the special cutlery? What did you bring to the potluck and why? It is act of holding a hand, of offering a prayer, of asking: ‘have you eaten yet?’. It is a story told in episodes - of families, friends, lovers, and underscored by cracking sound design and composition by Nicola T. Chang. 

Punchy, personal, and fresh, this piece represents the best of Young Company work - and the firm commitment of the Bush Theatre to platforming their voices. For some of the group, this is their first public performance, and I think it’s fantastic to see such strong emerging talent being championed by the theatre. With platforms like VAULT disappearing, it’s even more crucial that we provide space for artists to experiment with voice, form and get their work seen. It’s not perfect, but that’s the point - it’s new work, and about community, togetherness and the audience love it. 

You can tell that the cast of 18 had an absolute blast making this show. It comes out in the creativity of the work, their (epic) dancing (credit to movement director Mateus Daniel) and the friendship forged between the Company. They share their talent, invite us into their shared connection, and open up stories about language and culture - and it's a show full of hope and feeling and it feels lively and alive. Plus, it made me really hungry for all the AMAZING food they talk about...and nostalgic for all the recipes passed down through my family and all the meals I have cooked with my friends.  

I have to say that it was an absolute joy to watch Communion. The work serves as the perfect antidote to the ugly scenes of division taking place across the UK this week. It is a reminder to rejoice in the moments we share together - whether over a cup of coffee or in the chicken shop - unified by community, sharing food and joyful laughter and silliness. 

Communion played at Bush Theatre until August 10th

For more information visit https://www.bushtheatre.co.uk/event/communion/

Photos by Harry Elletson