WIP - The Moor
This solo performance explores the life of Gustav Badin, a boy sold into slavery who became a confidant at Sweden’s royal court. Combining historical narrative and imagination, it examines race, identity, and power. Inspired by Gustav Badin’s diary entries. Based on his diary entries, the monologue brings to life Badin’s wit, insights, and challenges as a Black man in 18th-century Europe. Through poetic storytelling, The Moor reflects on colonial legacies and the search for belonging.
- Rating: 3.5 / 5 (2 reviews)
Reviews
- Gerard Bester — ★★★★☆ (4/5) — July 12, 2025
Love that your excavation is the history of the place you work in. I could not help but make the connection between you the and the central character. A generous and vulnerable presentation added to the poignancy of the work. All the best in developing the text and finding new textures and layers in the work. - Yvette Hardie — ★★★☆☆ (3/5) — July 12, 2025
Loved the concept of this and thinks it has so much potential. Thought your sensitivity and presence was beautiful. The piece could perhaps do with some development in terms of the central conflict and I was wondering about the character of the king Gustav vs Gustav the moor and whether they could become stronger antagonists through perhaps playing the king more directly. The tension around the possible murder could also be more layered within the text, but I think this is a very worthwhile exploration… I think the experience of the kidnapped boy can also be highlighted more - the frightened child separated from family, community etc never fully arrives on stage. But I found this very rich and would love to see it staged.