An Unfinished Man by Dipo Baruwa-Etti - ★★★★★

An Unfinished Man follow’s Kayode as he struggles with his mental health.

His mother and pastor characterise his mental state as a consequence of a curse placed on him as a child in Nigeria. His wife Kikiope however is sceptical of this supposed origin, and pushes for his condition to be named as depression and treated professionally. Through these relationships we see how Kayode’s mental health struggles, affect not only him, but also those he keeps closest.

In just over 60 minutes An Unfinished Man provides a powerful, layered and authentic exploration of attitudes towards mental health within West African Communities, and the spiritual solutions we sometimes rely on.

It also raises questions on how “living in a place we helped rebuild, but were never allowed to build a space for us” affects our mental health.

Kayode’s depression is anthropomorphised through the character of Itan, and we see a haunting and extremely visual depiction of his battle. She taunts and tricks him, with an almost serpent like seduction, leading him to believe that they are bound - there is no him without her.  They communicate in a language that only the two of them understand, however meaning is not lost. In the absence of language, movement and expression fill the gap.

Visually, the show is simply stunning (set design by Rosie Elnile). Set against the backdrop of a church, with deep red carpets, much of the performance is centred around a baptism pool, which adds to the performance both symbolically and physically. Electric lighting and sounds from Ciaran Cunningham and George Dennis further adds to the eiry and charged atmosphere.

Two years, and three postponements later, An Unfinished Man was entirely worth the wait. A perfect marriage of a considered script and creative and impactful staging, it’s not one to miss.

Photo credit: Selina Jones as Itan, Fode Simbo as Kayode, photographer Camilla Greenwell

An Unfinished Man is showing at the Yard Theatre until 12 March.