King Dave: a Heartfelt Play that Speaks Volumes
Picture taken by Andrée Lanthier
This spring season, from March 28 to April 16, the Centaur Theatre has the honour of showcasing King Dave, a brilliant translation of the 2021 french-adaptation of the eponymous play. Written by Alexandre Goyette, this one-man show explores young and charismatic Haitian-Canadian Dave’s rocky path to finding his way in Montreal. As he then faces a series of choices, each affecting his future in different ways, it is revealed that a person’s past isn’t what they show. Recently translated and adapted into English by Anglesh Major and Patrick Emmanuel Abellard, the play deals with deeper themes such as systematic racism whilst employing a comedic tone, adding a light-hearted touch to the play, making it enjoyable and thought-inducing all at once. Tickets range from 20.00$ to 68.00$.
The amazingly talented Patrick Emmanuel Abellard is, quite literally, the one and only star of the show. Alone on stage, Abellard is accompanied by only a few rehearsal cubes, some mics, and a piano. Through his dynamic performance and masterful use of the stage, he perfectly conveys and helps the audience walk through the inner thought process of the main character, Dave. Playing every role by himself, his well-thought and timed line delivery, as well as his skilful acting provide a seamless integration of side characters into the story line. His energy-filled presence, combined with the constant use of lighting on stage provide the right mood and atmosphere for every scenario; whether the character finds himself wandering in the busy streets of Montreal, or even rushing in the STM, the settings are drawn out perfectly.
Despite the stage’s simplicity, the atmosphere never feels short of what is needed. Music is often used to induce certain emotions in the audience, such as a steady heart-beat-like soundtrack when tension is high, or an electric groove when Dave finds himself at a party. We also get to enjoy small inserts of Abellard’s live singing, self-accompanied with a piano background, often adding variety to the ways inner monologues are delivered.
Abellard’s acting is, simply put, immaculate. Throughout the entire 2+ hour production, not once does he miss the mark on the emotion or dynamic of the scenes, keeping up a one-man monologue at full potential till the very end, demonstrating amazing stamina and devotion, enabling him to deliver a heartfelt climax to the play.
Not only is this show an enjoyment on technical aspects and its comedic undertone, it also grapples with multiple heavy themes. As a Haitian-Canadian, Dave’s everyday struggle with systematic racism, is explored and portrayed through the influence of such injustices in his decisions. The play contains many references to police brutality as well, highlighting societal issues highly relevant to recent reality. Minor themes included social class division, revenge, drugs and the societal apathy and ignorance of crimes, which were all weaved into the story line in an extremely natural way. Nothing seems out of place: the play speaks volumes whilst keeping a smooth and enjoyable flow.
Simple and relatable themes are also incorporated into the play. Though the characters might be experiencing different realities from the audience, many snippets such as glimpses of Dave’s interactions with his mother, his struggle in interpersonal relationships and frustration toward the STM managed to give everyone a common thread. This creates a certain relatability to the character, simultaneously serving as a comedic break where everyone can have an upbeat laugh (I had the chance of sitting right in front of Abellard’s family members, and their constant cheering and support only added to the pleasant atmosphere).
If you’re in Montreal this spring, or even just over Easter weekend, King Dave is a must watch. The talented Patrick Emmanuel Abellard manages to bring this adaptation to life in a way that is sure to keep any audience entertained. It’s thought-provoking, poignant, and you just might get a few good laughs out of it. The Centaur’s location in the Old Port also offers quite the variety of midday activities to attend. So bring your close ones, and enjoy the show!
