Spitfire is a one man show following Ian “Ewok” Robinson’s previous show One man, One mic, One voice directed by Libby Allen which featured on the 2008 National Arts Festival’s Fringe programme. This one, also directed by Allen, marks a second complimented collaboration between the two, as Spitfire takes the concept of ‘One man, One mic, One voice’ a successful step further.

To tell a story (or, in this case, many stories) through rhyme, rap, poetry and b-boxing, in an hour; add intense social commentary with a ‘holding nothing back’ attitude, a clever use of the stage by the director, amazing characterization and the rhyming-rapping skill of Ian “Ewok” Robinson and you get a great sequel that every socially, politically, economically conscious individual needs to watch. Subject matter was extensive as mind, body, soul, as well as politics, society, economy, the state of Africa, internationality, ideas morals and choices stood out for me.

Whenever Ewok is on stage he not only is extremely entertaining to watch and hear, but his show is highly educating about secular issues. The show is so thought-provoking that one feels inspired and ignorant all at once. One is given a wake-up call in a highly entertaining manner as to the state of our country, minds and morals.

Physicality was superb, he is a chameleon on stage; and the vocal skill Ewok possesses, whether b-boxing, rapping, rhyming or singing has a striking energy. Definitely a success, catch it if you can if it comes to a theatre near you. – Shika Budhoo