The Round House Theatre is currently showcasing Mfoniso Udofia’s powerful play, Sojourners, which delves into the complexities of the immigrant experience in America. In a time when anti-immigrant sentiments permeate public discourse, this production serves as a poignant counter-narrative that emphasizes resilience and hope.
A Strong Central Character
At the heart of Sojourners is Abasiama, a pregnant Nigerian woman portrayed with remarkable depth by Billie Krishawn. Set in Houston in 1978, Abasiama is eight months into her pregnancy with her husband, Ukpong. Their marriage, arranged by their affluent fathers, adds layers of tension to the story. While Abasiama strives to pursue her biology degree and support her family by working nights at a gas station, her husband, played by the compelling Opa Adeyemo, struggles with his own demons. Ukpong’s lack of ambition and his troubling behavior create an environment fraught with anxiety for Abasiama.
From the play’s opening scene, audiences are drawn into Abasiama’s world. Her husband’s unwelcome advances and abusive behavior raise immediate concern for her safety and well-being. As Abasiama navigates the challenges of her circumstances, viewers become invested in her journey, rooting for her as she embodies both vulnerability and strength.
Tension Between Two Worlds
The first act unfolds against the backdrop of Abasiama’s complicated relationship with Ukpong. While he embraces life in America, reveling in its freedoms, Abasiama remains focused on her education and her plans to return to Nigeria to contribute to its reconstruction following the recent war. This conflict highlights the theme of the American Dream—how it can be simultaneously empowering and oppressive.
Critics have interpreted the couple’s struggles as a reflection of broader societal issues, particularly the manifestations of acculturated sexism. Ukpong’s attempts to dominate Abasiama evoke both frustration and empathy from the audience. The portrayal of their marital dynamic challenges the audience to consider the complexities of identity and gender within the immigrant experience.
Introducing Supporting Characters
A pivotal character in the narrative is Disciple, another Nigerian student portrayed by Kambi Gathesha. Disciple grapples with his academic challenges while searching for his place in this new landscape. His initial appearance at the gas station, where he meets Abasiama, sets the stage for a developing friendship that provides much-needed emotional support.
Disciple’s presence offers a refreshing counterpoint to Ukpong’s character, emphasizing camaraderie and understanding among immigrants. As the story progresses, his relationship with Abasiama deepens, providing a glimpse into the strength of community and solidarity that can emerge in difficult times.
A Unique Perspective on Survival
The character of Moxie, played by Renea S. Brown, introduces another layer of complexity to the narrative. An American-born teenager engaged in survival sex, Moxie’s encounter with Abasiama at the gas station underscores the stark realities faced by many young women in vulnerable situations. Abasiama’s instinctive compassion for Moxie showcases her inherent goodness, emphasizing the theme of empathy amidst adversity.
The interactions between these characters illuminate the multifaceted nature of the immigrant experience. They reflect a shared humanity that transcends cultural differences, fostering connections based on mutual understanding and support.
Direction and Design
Under the thoughtful direction of Valerie Curtis-Newton, the production maintains an understated aesthetic that complements its emotional depth. Paige Hathaway’s scenic design effectively captures the essence of Abasiama’s life, featuring naturalistic sets that evolve with the narrative. The use of a turntable adds dynamism, allowing the audience to experience different settings seamlessly.
Costume designer Ivania Stack skillfully conveys character through clothing choices, enhancing the storytelling. Porsche McGovern’s lighting design and Kenny Neal’s sound design work together to create an immersive atmosphere, reflecting the subtleties of life at the gas station.
Additionally, the precision of dialect coaching by Dawn-Elin Fraser and the contributions from Francesca and Ekemini Ekpo in language consulting enrich the authenticity of the performance, grounding it in cultural reality.
A Slow Burn Leading to a Powerful Conclusion
Sojourners unfolds at a deliberate pace, gradually building tension before reaching its emotional climax. The play’s second act shifts dramatically, revealing Abasiama’s evolution into a more independent and empowered individual. This transformation resonates powerfully, reminiscent of the shocking conclusion of Ibsen’s A Doll’s House, where the protagonist’s departure signifies a rejection of societal constraints.
The playwright’s note in the script urging audiences to endure the challenges of Act One for the release found in Act Two encapsulates the experience of watching Sojourners. The narrative’s resolution offers a sense of hope, illustrating that through perseverance, one can achieve empowerment and self-discovery.
Conclusion
Mfoniso Udofia’s Sojourners is a compelling exploration of immigration, identity, and resilience. Through the lens of Abasiama’s experiences, the play addresses pressing societal issues while highlighting the strength found within the immigrant community.
As audiences engage with the story, they are invited to reflect on the broader implications of the immigrant narrative in America. In a climate marked by division and fear, Sojourners stands as a testament to the power of empathy and understanding, reminding us of the shared human experience that unites us all. The production at Round House Theatre not only entertains but also provokes thoughtful dialogue about the complexities of immigration in today’s society.
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