Topdog/Underdog

"Topdog/Underdog" is a poignant play by the American playwright Suzan-Lori Parks. Now playing at the Southbank Theatre until the 21st of September, this two-character play is profound and explores themes around race, identity, brotherhood, and trying to make it in a harsh world.

The Pulitzer Prize-winning play centres around the lives of two African American brothers, Lincoln (Damon Manns) and Booth (Ras-Samuel). Lincoln, a former "Three-card Monte" hustler, now earns an honest living impersonating Abraham Lincoln for tourists, while Booth lives a life of petty crime. Booth practices the three-card scam his older brother perfected and wants them to join forces.

Combined with poetic monologues and phenomenal performances, a rich tapestry comes to life in front of us, capturing the complexities that exist within sibling relationships. The dialogue is witty, heartfelt, and reflects the brothers' love and rivalry, shining a light on the issues that divide them. Brilliantly directed by Bert LaBonte, the play is masterful at character development and moves at a fluid pace. Our central characters are deeply flawed individuals, yet we feel sympathy towards them and come to understand their plight. Lincoln and Booth often reminisce about their parents and how they were left behind. They discuss the lessons they learned and how to survive in a jaded world.

Manns and Samuel are perfectly in sync, and their prowess on stage makes for an inspiring and authentic performance. Right from the get-go, you fall into their world and go on a character-driven journey that will take you through a range of emotions. The duo's seamless flow on stage facilitates the narrative's effortless transition from scene to scene.

Although the set is visually sparse, our characters fill the voids. The ending came as somewhat of a surprise to me, but when I look back, the warning signs were right in front of me. A cleverly crafted and touching play that will live on in your head after the curtain closes.