Never Have I Ever: A Reflection on Privilege and Progressivism
The play "Never Have I Ever," written by comedian Deborah Frances-White, emerges from a backdrop of significant societal changes, influenced by the revelations surrounding Harvey Weinstein and the murder of George Floyd. These events catalyzed a broader reflection on privilege, power dynamics, and the complexity of social justice issues. Frances-White crafts a comedic narrative that not only entertains but also challenges audiences to think critically about the intersectionality of race, gender, and class within contemporary society.
Set in a chic London restaurant, the characters are introduced as a group of former university friends reconnecting for a dinner filled with revelations. Jacq, a working-class chef played by Emily Rose Brennan, and her partner Kaz, portrayed by Deep Sroa, are facing the harsh reality of bankruptcy after their ambitious and progressive venture of individual cooking stations—a notion aimed at providing safety in a post-COVID world—falls flat financially. The pressures of running a restaurant amid substantial social expectations collide with the economic realities of their innovative but impractical concept. The idea, though well-intentioned and supported by Tobin, played by Will O’Mahony, ultimately crumbles under the weight of its own costs.
As the narrative unfolds, the dinner becomes a vehicle for exploring deeper issues surrounding privilege and guilt. Tobin, a character whose wealth stems from an ethically-driven investment business, is positioned as a well-meaning ally in the fight for social justice alongside Adaego, his journalist partner, who is dedicated to activism. However, the dynamics shift when the group begins to poke fun at Tobin’s attempts to claim victimhood, highlighting the absurdity of their positions within the social hierarchy. The play’s comedic elements cleverly reveal the flaws and contradictions in their characters, allowing the audience to reflect on the complexities of privilege and identity.
The drinking game that ensues becomes a catalyst for unveiling hidden truths, pushing the characters to confront their own biases and vulnerabilities. Tobin’s facade begins to crack as he grapples with the reality of his privilege in the face of individuals who experience oppression differently. Frances-White skillfully navigates these themes, providing both humor and depth as the group exposes their inherent flaws and biases, making the audience oscillate between laughter and contemplation.
The strength of the performances, especially from the four main actors, reinforces the play’s central themes. Their chemistry and timing elevate the comedic elements, allowing the audience to delve deeper into the narrative. The play shines a light on the often-ignored complexities of social activism where intention does not always equate to impact. Through their interactions, Frances-White not only encourages dialogue around privilege but also critiques the performative nature of “woke” culture that sometimes overshadows genuine progress.
In conclusion, "Never Have I Ever" serves as a humorous yet poignant exploration of modern privilege and social justice activism. Through a clever narrative and engaging performances, Deborah Frances-White invites the audience to consider the multifaceted realities of race, class, and gender. The play demands introspection while entertaining, leaving viewers to reflect on their own roles in a world that is far more complex than simple binary understandings of power and privilege.
