Park Theatre
Playing until 12th October 2024
Photo credit: Jack Bush
Review {AD-PR Gifted}
Ostan follows the difficult and challenging process of navigating the UK’s immigration system and the struggles of being granted Indefinite Remain to Leave status. The story follows Rebin (Ojan Genc), a carwash worker in London who has been stuck in a limbo for 10 years. The play takes place as Rebin navigates his immigration application whilst competing with neighbouring immigrant run businesses. The arrival of Gӧrkem (Serkan Avlik), a Kurdish immigrant who is also waiting to hear about his leave-to-remain status, is the catalyst for a number of changes that Rebin must tackle. Despite the poignant subject matter, the play struggles to find a consistent rhythm due to over complicated staging and confusing dialogue that left the audience underwhelmed.
The dynamic between the characters was difficult to follow throughout the play, with multiple storylines that felt disjointed and prohibited an in-depth exploration of any of the issues raised. It was challenging for the audience to keep track of the plot and the relevance of each of the characters. Overlapping dialogue added to this issue as well as the use of multiple languages, including arabic. No subtitles or translations were provided, and further work is needed to clearly show parallels between the storylines.
The use of sound and staging was also challenging for the audience, with loud music played over dialogue at a number of key moments during the play. The volume of sound reverberates in this small theatre and adds little impact. The set design by Liz Cooke includes a number of props, such as a hoover and hoses, and the repeated use of these throughout the play added a lot of distracting sounds. The props added little to the storyline and interrupted the flow of the performance, adding a clunky feel. Although the props were excessive, the cast members still attempted to wash invisible cars, taking away from the seriousness and gravity of the issues being addressed.
While Ostan attempted to tackle emotive and important themes around the injustices of the immigration system and cultural identity, the story lacks momentum and emotional depth that prevents it from making significant impact. Despite moments of potential, the play only scratches the surface of issues, offering a superficial exploration of an pertinent topic.
Creatives
Writer: Arzhang Pezhman
Director: Gaby Dellal
Set and Costume Director: Liz Cooke
Composer and Sound Designer: Oguz Kaplangi
Movement Director: Bobak Champion
Producer: Noga Flaishon
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