'I want to feed you' is a feast of laughter

UNCLE Ebo Whyte’s led Roverman Productions has once again proven their mastery of storytelling with their latest production, I Want To Feed You which was hosted at the National Theatre over the weekend–September 6, 7, and 8.

There was an encore from Friday, September 13-Sunday, September 15.

The play's setting, nestled in a typical Ga community, instantly resonates with members of the audience who have called such neighbourhoods home.

 The story kicks off with Auntie Peace, infamous for her fiery temper and rough-around-the-edges demeanour, unleashing a torrent of curses when she discovers her chicken for Christmas didn’t come home to roost. 

Her penchant for finding trouble continues as she betrays a friend and dodges repayment of debt. Her unreasonable attitude towards Serwaa, her neighbour, takes an unexpected turn when she finds out  Serwaa's kindness saves her(Auntie Peace) life. 

Serwaa, a young woman with an occupation shrouded in mystery, works only at night and openly claims to be a prostitute.

Nhyira, affectionately known as Bro Boat is smitten with Serwaa, despite her occupation. 

However, his mother, Maa B, is less than thrilled about his choice of partner, thanks to the meddling of Auntie Peace, the neighbourhood gossipmonger. 

Auntie Peace takes great pleasure in fueling Maa B's disapproval by constantly feeding her juicy tidbits about Serwaa's supposed profession. 

Auntie Peace has no qualms about publicly labeling Serwaa a prostitute, often hurling the derogatory term ‘ashawo’ at her without provocation. 

While Serwaa typically avoids engaging in Auntie Peace's drama, she finally stands up to her and delivers a sharp retort, suggesting Auntie Peace direct her insults at her own daughter, Oboshie, who has three different men claiming to be her child's father.

The three fathers of Oboshie’s child are Desmond (taxi driver), Micky Darling, and Captain Gabby who is in the US Army.

Is Serwaa really a prostitute who is she running away from a dark past? The question is answered as the plot of the play thickens. 

The cast delivered outstanding performances, perfectly capturing the essence of their characters. Notably, Alaska and Beautiful Torture, two well-known troublemakers, stole the show with their authentic portrayals of ‘kubolor’ (vagabonds). 

Ayorkor, Auntie Peace's friend-turned-adversary, also made a good impression with her convincing performance, particularly in the comic scene where she clashes with Auntie Peace over the latter's audacious act of devouring her ‘funeral food’, which she had brought from the family house to be kept for her.

The storyline's blend of humour and intrigue was engaging as the audience eagerly follow the rollercoaster of twists and turns that kept them laughing, guessing, and thoroughly entertained.

Uncle Ebo Whyte's signature blend of humour, wit, and social commentary was also on full display, with phrases such as ‘Bawumiah Lie Detectors’, ‘Napo Humble Pie’ and ‘Rod and staff comfort Me’ leaving the audience in stitches.

I Want To Feed You is the 56th addition to Uncle Ebo Whyte's impressive repertoire of plays, which have consistently pushed the boundaries of Ghanaian theatre since he started in 2008.

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