NO MORE MR NICE GUY
No More Mr Nice Guy by Cal-I Jonel
Keloughn Douglas, a 35-year-old British-Caribbean Music Teacher, finds himself grappling with multiple challenges. Working in a school where he feels undervalued and overworked, he also faces the pressure of his fiancée Carmel's desire for an extravagant wedding, all while trying to balance stability and pursue his dreams.
The play commences with Keloughn, portrayed by Cal-I Jonel, sharing his predicament and questioning whether he can still pursue his aspirations at his age. His profound love for music, which he refers to as "his woman," is evident as he reveals it to be the driving force behind his ambitions. Throughout the 70-minute performance, presented in a gig-theatre format, Cal-I Jonel, accompanied by Hannah Ledwidge on drums and Terry Smiles on keyboards and guitar, pours out his heart in an open mic style event.
Keloughn faces various challenges, including a demanding father-in-law, an overfamiliar line manager named Cliff, and an inexperienced colleague named Becky who exacerbates his troubles. Despite these hurdles, Keloughn inadvertently attracts attention on Instagram, leading to contact from an A&R representative, which, surprising only complicates matters further. As the play unfolds, Keloughn's coping mechanisms become increasingly unhealthy, straining his relationships and causing him to act out of character.
While the incorporation of rapping, singing and audience interaction adds some depth to the performance, it occasionally derails the storytelling. Issues with erratic lighting and overpowering sound also detract from the overall experience. Although the writing shows promise, the execution falls short in fully conveying the potential of the story, with disjointed transitions hindering the narrative flow. As we explore and redefine the boundaries of theatrical norms, it remains crucial to preserve the core essence of storytelling; nevertheless, the play's endeavour to innovate deserves praise.
The production shines in showcasing the skills of all performers, including Ledwidge and Smiles, whose final display before the curtain call is nothing short of phenomenal. The intimate setting of the space adds to the immersive experience, inviting the audience into Keloughn's world. Noteworthy is Jonel’s solo rendition of his single "Cheesecake and Wine," which underscores the breadth of his talent.
"No More Mr Nice Guy" is a fun play that offers a unique exploration of life's pressures and their detrimental effects. While it prompts introspection and moments of reflection, it also celebrates the journey of self-discovery amidst adversity.
By Eniola Edusi
★★★☆☆
No More Mr Nice Guy is showing at Broadway Catford Theatre until 16th March, and thereafter touring the UK.
