Overview of the Play
Tia-Renee Mullings's coming-of-age play A to B at Soho Theatre in London explores the nerves, hope, and anticipation of preparing for a blind date. The story is told through two separate, overlapping monologues featuring Brianna (Zakiyyah Dean) and Armani (Sheyi Cole), who are set up by mutual friends and have only a photo of their prospective partner to rely on.
Plot and Mishaps
For Brianna and Armani, nothing goes according to plan. Brianna's younger sisters steal and destroy her carefully chosen outfit, and an unfortunate encounter with water guns ruins her hair. Meanwhile, Armani misses his barber appointment and ends up with a terrible haircut. These mishaps, while relatable, become predictable over the play's 80-minute runtime, causing the narrative to feel like it is running in circles.
Character Depth
Both characters use keeping up appearances as armour, but the audience longs for deeper insight. Occasionally, glimpses of vulnerability emerge: Dean reveals Brianna as someone eager to be loved, while Cole's Armani hopes his date will see beyond his imperfect image. Directed by Ewa Dina, time-stamps flash on a screen to mark the passing of the day.
Language and Setting
Dean and Cole take turns narrating, with the script featuring lyrical spoken-word passages and rhythmic exchanges. Mullings's writing pulses with the textures of south London life, drawing British Jamaican life in vibrant shades. The play is an ode to budding romance, but needs more story to feel complete.
A to B is at Soho Theatre, London, until 3 July.
