Leonie Elliott-Graves

Summary of reviews for Forgotten Heroes

Most of the reviews commented on the diversity in this performance
ranging from dancing to miming to talking which produced an interesting
vibrant result. Moreover most of them commented positively on the
switch of moods from hilariously comic to chillingly sad. However,
quite a few critics complained about the lack of structure in the
performance which made it difficult to follow and meant that the themes
were not developed in enough depth. Nevertheless, this performance was
considered electric, energetic, diverse, interesting, powerful, witty
and accessible by the critics.
A lot of importance was placed on the theme of the performance
which is the male stereotypes of strength and masculinity which black
men suffer from. This performance explored how the sensitivity of men
is repressed from a young age in order for them to grow up according to
the oppressive stereotypes that have been imposed by society. The group
presents how this can lead to violent unloving men. However, the women
in this performance are not presented favourably either but are shown
to increase the difficulties the men have to face by supporting the
macho stereotypes one time and condemning them the other. The
performance has been praised by all the reviews for its effort but also
for its success in presenting such a complex and subtle issue.