Critically acclaimed Devon-based production, Outlier, opens next week

A poignant South West production will make its return in Plymouth next week following successful runs at Bristol Old Vic and the Barbican Theatre.

 First conceived in 2020, Outlier was written, and will be performed by, TRP’s Associate Director Malaika Kegode. Debuting at Bristol Old Vic in 2021, before a second run in 2022, the production then played at the Barbican Theatre. The emotive autobiographical play is back and heads to TRP from 26 September – 05 October.

Outlier follows five friends on the cusp of adulthood growing up in a rural community in Devon. It touches on the struggles of growing up in isolation and the power of friendship and creativity when faced with hardships. Combining the powerful poetics of Malaika and the uplifting music of Bristol band Jakabol, the production also features animation by Christopher Harrisson, lighting by Joe Price, and an evocative set designed by Rebecca Wood. The production is directed by Jenny Davies.

The show, which was originally developed and co-produced by Bristol Old Vic and Liz Counsell, is revived in this production by TRP and marks the theatre’s continued ambition to welcome more South West artists and gig theatre to The Drum.

Malaika said: “This show is very close to me. It explores how growing up in idyllic places with lots of beautiful open spaces can actually be quite suffocating. There are lots of parodies about Devon, but not many shows written about the county by people who grew up here. There are so many rich, diverse stories, and I wanted to give a voice to Devon, and that feels good. 

“Outlier touches on some heavy topics, but the show itself is uplifting and I hope it fills the audience with hope and joy and that they go away feeling held.”

Outlier, rated 14+, runs at TRP from 26 September – 05 October 2024. Tickets can be purchased https://theatreroyal.com/whats-on/outlier. On Thursday 03 October, a one-off after party open mic event will take place, inviting local to perform their poetry alongside improvised music by Jakabol. For further information and secure tickets, visit https://theatreroyal.com/whats-on/outlier-the-after-party/.

The 6pm performance of Outlier and the Outlier: Afterparty on Thursday 03 October will be BSL interpreted for audiences.