'Ruined' is about the conflict in the Democratic Republic of Congo and how women are subjected to unthinkable treatment by the army. The play is set in a bar/brothel run by Mama Nadi whose strong will, stubbornness and determination is so beautifully portrayed by Jenny Jules. Mama Nadi's bar is in a small miners village in Congo. She takes on two new girls; Salima and Sophie whose lives have been eclipsed by the cruelty men inflicted on them. Mama Nadi's place attracts the attention of two rival forces and because her hunger for business is so great, she befriends both forces which will bring bad luck.
From the start the vibrant costumes and set (Robert Jones) capture the audience into a bubble they do not want to leave. As the live music from the drum and guitar players on stage starts, you feel almost part of the scene. The naturalistic essence of the play is so vivid you can even smell what Mama Nadi's place is like.
The writer, Lynn Nottage captures the lives of these people so well it brings you to tears. The direction by Indhu Rubasingham sweeps the audience into an almost hypnotic trance as they lean in as far as they can to immerse themselves into each message, sound and movement this play has to offer.
If the resounding roar of applause and standing ovations by the audience is anything to go by, I would say this was undoubtedly the best play I have seen to date.
Would recommend it to anyone who has a pumping heart!
'Ruined' is showing at the Almeida Theater until the 5th of June! Go to the website by clicking the link below. On there click "BOOK NOW" and get your tickets!
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