REVIEW: Truth to Power Cafe, Edge Hill Arts Centre

DIVISIONS, and distractions, seem to be everywhere. In the age of Brexit and cancel culture, the chance to find common ground and listen to other people can seem all too rare sometimes. And while perhaps not devised as an antidote to that per se, that is why Truth to Power Cafe is such a valuable piece of performance; a punchy, punky journey of human connection, and an oh-so timely reminder of the difference a little unity and empathy can make.

The premise for this show is quite simple and pure. Performer Jeremy Goldstein begins proceedings with an autobiographical monologue, before handing the stage to audience members – willing volunteers who have worked with his team in advance, mind – who step up to the microphone to speak truth to their power.

The piece has been performed internationally and very much comes from the heart. Goldstein effectively comperes the Truth to Power Cafe, with an opening monologue a mix of memoir, poetry and song. He examines his tempestuous relationship with his late father Mick, a member of Harold Pinter’s inner circle of lifelong friends known as the Hackney Gang (including Henry Woolf, whose verse features). There’s something of an Aussie Ian Drury in his style and delivery. He opens up about living with HIV in the 80s. Although it is not mentioned explicitly, the pale yellow star on his breast pocket did not go unnoticed. These hints and symbols tell us Jeremy is, perhaps was always destined to be, an outsider. But – of course – he is far from alone. On this night at Edge Hill Arts Centre, eight people stepped up to illustrate that point, a responsibility clearly not something he or director Jen Heyes took lightly. [See the MADEUP interview with Jen here]

It was remarkable, how in the space of just a few minutes each, these random strangers shared such intimate information about themselves and who they are, and, as an audience member, how deeply it can be connected with in no time at all. It somehow brought to mind a stage equivalent of the Humans of New York website, which always leaves you wondering how on earth the photojournalist behind it gets people to open up quite so personally and tell such amazing stories.

The first participant spoke of the power of music and how it helped her through the grief of losing her husband and parents in quick succession. The next spoke to the low self-esteem that had dogged his life, making him a target for bullies at school and eventually an alcoholic. Another spoke of the scars of leaving her abusive husband and starting over with her young son. Pass them in the street, and you’d never know. Therein lies the beauty. As much as it may doubtless be cathartic for those taking part, in turn their generosity of expression is a real gift to the audience as well.

Whether the contributors were used to public speaking or not, they spoke so that you hung on their every word, appreciating and empathising with their journey. At about an hour in length, it provided a real snapshot of a wide variety of experiences. There’s a lot to learn at the Truth to Power Cafe. It’s definitely worth it to listen.

Thanks to Sarah Hickson for the image from the night. For future dates and how to get involved see the Truth to Power Cafe website.