Playwright and performer Malaika Kegode presents "Badgers," a supernatural narrative centered on the mysterious disappearance of a melancholic folk singer. The story, staged for Theatre Royal Plymouth, delves into the investigation spearheaded by Meles Costas, a true-crime podcaster whose qualifications are questionable. Costas operates under the significant influence of his highly accomplished, yet terminally ill, mother.
Kegode weaves gothic fairytale elements into the fabric of the story, featuring folk songs imbued with dark magic and transformations between human and animal forms. The piece prompts reflection on the selection of stories that resonate with audiences, particularly questioning Kegode's choice to explore this specific tale of disappearance and investigation. The production highlights the inherent allure of storytelling itself.
