The Woven Voices Prize 2023 winner Aaron Kilercioglu's play The EU Killed My Dad opens with a powerful scene that draws the audience in and makes them curious about the characters and their narrative at Jermyn Street Theatre.
Georgia Green has done a masterful job directing this comedy, which features a lovely blend of humor, smart dialogue, and thought-provoking subjects. The audience is guaranteed a seamless and captivating experience by the director's fast pacing and deft management of the multi-rolling characters.
The fragmented family relationships are brought to life by the excellent five-member cast, which includes Dilek Şengül as his complex sister Elif and Luca Kamleh Chapman as the protagonist Berker. its connection on stage perfectly depicts the essence of a family that is split up by culture but kept together by its fundamental commonalities.
Rosie Hilal, Ojan Genc, and Tiran Aakel give outstanding performances that avoid confusion and maintain clarity when they switch between different characters. It is admirable how they were able to create unique identities using their attire, speech patterns, and body language.
Photo credits: Jack Sain
The main character, Berker, is a fascinating figure who, following a murder that appears to have familial ties, travels from England to rural Turkey to investigate his origins. Language hurdles and Elif, his half-sister,'s initial coldness notwithstanding, the plot develops through time-traveling scenes that disclose the family's past, hardships, and inner torment.
Photo credits: Jack Sain
Its unique approach of transitioning between different periods enriches the narrative and allows viewers to witness character growth. It presents a novel perspective on significant occurrences in Turkey's history.
The play's fascination is increased by the fact that, while the plot does provide some answers, it also allows room for interpretation and conjecture. The way the many components work together to create a compelling environment keeps the audience interested in the plot.
Photo credits: Jack Sain
Given that it tends to go more toward a mash-up of genres and themes, some could counter that it lacks the soul that is usually found in theater. However, the emotional depth and the experiences of the individuals make up for this, giving the audience an engaging and thought-provoking experience.
This explores political commentary on the vulnerability of the Turkish state and the effects of both internal and external forces on its inhabitants, even if it is amusing and engaging. The experiences of the protagonists explore themes of migration, family, and the changing political landscape, serving as an allegory for the journey of the nation over the past 50 years.
This comedy strikes a good mix of comedy, drama, and political satire in a masterfully performed production. Although the playwright's potential may not be fully realized in this specific piece, it offers a promising look at what they have planned for the future. The EU Killed My Dad is a remarkable theatrical production that provides an engrossing and multi-layered experience, leaving the interpretation up to the spectator.
