Growing Pains explores the best and worst bits of friendship reunions
Reunions. They’re frequently one of the most socially awkward occasions for us all, especially when it comes to old friends. Who’s slaying in their lane? Who’s still stuck in the past? Who’s that with your exe? And what will so-and-so think of you now?
Awkward. So, in others words: perfect drama for a stage play.
Growing Pains, a new production written by playwright and author Kahlia Bakosi, will explore the special connection we share with our friends when it comes to the stage on Saturday, March 10.
Bakosi told Fringe Frequency what prompted her to write the play: “My own personal experiences of breaking away from various friendship groups as I journeyed through my youth.
“I found connections I could once wholeheartedly defend had dwindled and withered with time. People became so difficult to recognise and other friends I had made told a story too similar, which was of great interest to me.”
Directed by Kay Dove and Kahlia Bakosi, Growing Pains asks: how well do we know our friends? Does time apart really change things? Is there an expiry date on friendship? And are you a true friend if you’re keeping secrets?
“People can expect to laugh and to be shocked at various points,” said Bakosi. “I want people to reflect on their childhood and find parallels in some of the characters’ personalities. If you were invited to Xavier’s reunion drink up, who would you be?”
Bakosi is no stranger to exploring the complexity of young relationships. Her previous work includes the play, Bottle Up and Explode, and short story, Twice.
The cast of Growing Pains includes Isaac Ade as Aaron, Yinka Fadeyi as Christina, Chiedu Agborh as Richie, Oluchi Nwabuwa as Ezerena, and Dontae Lindsay as Xavier.
Growing Pains is presented by ATSix Arts and takes place on March 10, 2018, at the DIY Space for London, SE15 1TF. There will be a matinee showing and an evening showing.
Tickets are priced from £12, and can be purchased here.
Image: courtesy of Kahlia Bakosi