Tickets were gifted in return for an honest review
Hamlet gets a fabulous reinvention in this Pulitzer Prize winning play by James Ijames. Fat Ham bursts on to the Swan Theatre stage making its European debut and the following 95 minutes are utterly compelling as this tragicomedy plays out.
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| Olisa Odele as Juicy. Photo by Ali Wright |
At the center of this vibrant narrative is Juicy, a queer Southern college student wrestling with profound questions of identity. When the ghost of his father appears in their backyard demanding vengeance for his murder, Juicy embarks on a journey marked by sensitivity and self-discovery. This unique perspective—a thoughtful and self-aware young Black man—adds a fresh twist to a story often told, as he dares to challenge the cycles of trauma and violence, seeking liberation for himself and those around him.
From a lively family barbecue, rich with humour and warmth, emerges a compelling exploration of life’s complexities. The European premiere is directed by Sideeq Heard and the key central themes of celebration, resilience and hope play out tremendously with the hugely talented cast. Thrown into the mix is discussions about Only Fans, karaoke, charades, and a sizzling array of food.
Olisa Odele is a sensation as Juicy, the weight he carries the role with is sublime. He masters every beat of the role and is magnetic to watch, you don’t want to miss a single thing he does. He compels every emotion with deep feeling, especially with his own inner turmoil.
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| Andi Osho (Tedra) and the company. Photo by Ali Wright |
There’s standout work by Sule Rimi as both the ghostly Pap, who appears using various clever staging techniques and with smoke bellowing out of his costume, as well as Rev. He is deliciously loathsome and portrays a strong attitude. Rimi gives a masterful performance in both roles.
In fact every one on the stage is outstanding. Be that Sandra Marvin’s tremendously glowing Rabby, Jasmine Elcock’s sweet natured Opal, Andi Osho’s gutsy Tedra who balances the line of mothership to Juicy and marital relations with Rev, Kieran Taylor Ford’s wild and carefree Tio and Corey Montague-Sholay’s thoughtful Larry.
Each actor contributes to a tapestry of joy and introspection that culminates in a fabulous and uplifting finale, leaving audiences with a sense of celebration that lingers long after the curtains close.
The stage design also is a key player as the space is so brilliantly imagined. Maruti Evans’ design uses of a whole variety of props which brings the space to life. The tonal switches in the lighting by Bradley King allows for the more emotive speeches or feelings to play out whilst illusions by Skylar Fox add magical moments to the visual eye catching staging.
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| Corey Montague-Sholay as Larry. Photo by Ali Wright |
As the piece wraps and you leave reflecting on this poignant and hilarious piece, it is clear that Fat Ham offers more than just entertainment—it's a powerful reminder of the strength found in love, the importance of self-acceptance, and the vibrant beauty of life, intersecting in the most unexpected ways.
This Queer, Black re-imagining of Hamlet feels powerful, relevant and that it must be seen. An absolute slay by the RSC to stage this fantastic piece of theatre. Let’s hope there is life beyond this short Stratford run…
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Fat Ham plays at the Swan Theatre in Stratford-Upon-Avon until Saturday 13th September 2025. Tickets are available from https://www.rsc.org.uk/
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