Fragments of a Complicated Mind is the first of any works I have come across by multidisciplinary artist Damilola DK Fashola, exploring the many facets of blackness and how it is perceived by varying groups. A cast of seven actors (Antonia Layiwola, Jasmeen James, Alaba Nwanya, Lily-Leur Bradbury, Dauda Ladejobi, Seyi Wilson and of course, Damilola DK Fashola) form a sixty-minute production that intertwines spoken word, dance and dialogue forcing the audience to look inward at their contribution toward a fragmented society.
Fragments of a Complicated Mind is unapologetically raw, unpacking endemic issues surrounding black identity with significant thought.
The audience is presented with a semi-lit stage and four equidistant chairs. Initially confusing, it is not long until significant themes become apparent. The ability of Fragments of Complicated Mind to subvert societal notions of blackness is done brilliantly, particularly through its presentation of black identity, body image, colourism and black femininity. The dialogue and its delivery is comical at times, but this is more to present a satirical outlook on the absurdity of the components that form our society. Hair being one - how black women's natural hair can create such hostility amongst groups. At times, the actors each deployed robotic stances, actions and words to convey the robotic nature of society and the subsequent conformity of those oppressed.
Whilst there is an element of storytelling throughout, Fragments bears no significant plot, nor are there any characters and so at times it can be difficult to follow the procession of events. However, this sits in harmony with the production as it represents our fragmented society and the fractured minds of all involved. Fragments of a Complicated Mind is unapologetically raw, unpacking endemic issues surrounding black identity with significant thought for the audience. This ultimately forces us to explore the dysfunctionality of human existence and how black identity fits within, growing to become the central theme in the play.
Fragments af a Complicated Mind is not alone in critiquing the world view of blackness/black identity, but it also allows for self-critique of perception within its own community. The notion of being black is something that has long since been defined by the white gaze, and this has often been adopted and driven by those within the black community for personal gain. The actors also excellently bear witness to the ongoing issues of taboo within the black community, notably exploring the conundrums of mental health and religion. Whilst the vast array of music often played throughout explore such topics, the excellence of the actors conveys such issues through great choreography in ways that result in unavoidable confrontation for the audience. The importance of such cannot be denied, for many have suffered, and continue to suffer, as a result of so-called taboo topics not being discussed. Thus, there is much to be gained from such discourse and Fragments forcefully yet brilliantly investigates.
The play comes in to its own through impressive theatre direction, conducted again by the wonderful Damilola DK Fashola. Notably the use of stage lighting, falling directly on the faces of the actors, and only their faces in most cases. Such intensity portrays the desire of the playwright for the audience to understand the fallout without escape, not allowing us to run, turn away, avoid or hide from the issues portrayed.
Fragments of a Complicated Mind expertly asks profound questions, allowing for empathy, however regrettably it is our choice as the audience as to whether we choose to be receptive. If anything, Fragments has a title that is very fitting. The absurdity remains that black identity continues to be defined by those who exist outside this realm, and this impacts on the attitudes within the black community. Overall, this is a hard-hitting yet beautifully orchestrated play that can have an impact on one’s life - if you allow it to.
