A reflective poignant social message conveyed through an invigorating, refreshing and heartfelt story. 

Theatre has had a misnomer of targeting only the elite, upper class of society, and to an extent this is sometimes reflected in the plays themselves. 

However, Tones: A Hip-Hop Opera (produced by Wound Up Theatre), has truly debased this stereotype, connecting with all walks of life, in a deeply touching, yet heartening manner. 

Tones is a solo performance, written and performed by acclaimed writer, actor, and rapper Gerel Falconer, who, through the spell-binding fusion of Grime, Hip-Hop and storytelling, encapsulates the essence of being Black, and challenges social expectations placed on Black people, to act a certain way. 

The production follows development of Jerome ( Mr. Professor), who begins the story as a regular, excitable and curious Primary School student, oblivious to the social disparities of the world, who’s whole life seems to revolve around his family of his mother, Uncle B and cousin Joe, who are all brought to life by Falconer seamlessly. 

Jerome’s first of many confrontations with his identity come with his attempts to imitate his wealthy white friends, with his desperation to fit in with this part of his life losing the respect of Black students, labelling him as ‘posh’ and ‘white boy.’ 

Jerome goes onto to have conflicts with his sense of belonging numerous times, with exploration of identity being reinforced as an overarching theme throughout the story. 

Falconer’s flawless merging of characters, namely Uncle B who’s poetically crafted advice imparts profound wisdom, empahsises the gravity of what is being discussed. 

The whole, one-hour long production is narrated through rap, and Falconer’s meaningful and smooth lyricism, coupled with the energetic beats of composer Daniel ‘3D’ Williams creates a heavenly blend, capturing Hip-Hop at its finest.  

The director Jonny Kelly succeeds in bringing the set to life, despite it being set in a studio for the whole play, with only a ladder, bench, and few buckets, with lots of credit having to go to Falconer for his lively engagement with the space. 

One viewer, Savannah Bailey, was extremely impressed with the production: 

I thought the play was brilliant. 

 

I think it covers such a range of topics, especially for young black men growing up in London, with an African background. 

 

“The lyricism was excellent, the use of content was great, I thought it was funny, but it was also very touching, watching his growth and his journey to understanding his own identity, and seeing his journey through mental health. 

 

“So I would definitely recommend to see it if anyone can get to. 

 

“I thought it was excellent.” 

The audience undoubtedly enjoyed the humour placed in all but a few verses as well as the witty pre-recorded gimmicks and were electrifying during Falconer’s interactions with the crowd. 

The performance was concluded with thunderous applause, and a much-deserved standing ovation. 

Tones: A Hip-Hop Opera, to be put simply, conveys one simple message: be yourself. 

However, within this wide umbrella, Falconer explores the nuances of burdens on Black people in particular, especially relevant in British society which places social expectations on Black people, confining them to being mere attachments to their skin-tone. 

For an hour of laughter, music, and pure emotion, head to Brixton House from 4-9 November, or other venues such as The Lowry from 5-8 March and watch Tones: A Hip-Hop Opera.  

It is a show not to be missed.