4 months ago
46
Theatre has long been a powerful tool for education, and Not a Discipline, the début production for JamBlack Productions creatively shaped by David Tulloch, with concepts by Jamaal Black and Simone Morgan-Lindo, proves just that.
A masterful blend of humour, hard-hitting truths, and authentic storytelling, this play captivated its school-aged audience from the opening scene to the final bow.
Set in a lively Jamaican classroom, Not a Discipline unearths the struggles of students who wrestle with bullying, discipline, and the deeper wounds of home life that often shape their behaviour. The story follows the defiant and troubled Danieka (played by Doneka Simpson), a young girl whose rebellious antics stem from a deeply fractured home. Her interactions with Mark Davidson, the timid yet resilient student she bullies, set the stage for a powerful exploration of forgiveness, resilience, and the unseen battles young minds face daily.
Shanakay Morrison’s portrayal of the sharp-tongued, yet well-meaning teacher, Miss Jennifer Juicy, was a standout and equally compelling was David Tulloch’s commanding presence as Principal Matthew Henry, the voice of reason who sees potential in every child, no matter how lost they seem.
The cast delivered remarkable performances, from Tiffany Pryce’s infectious energy as the mischievous Daniel Grant to Jamaal Black’s hilarious yet poignant take on Miss Etta Thompson, the feisty grandmother whose proverbs and old-school wisdom brought the house down.
Simone Morgan-Lindo’s performance as Candy, the abusive and neglectful mother, added layers of tension, serving as a stark reminder of the cycles of pain often passed down through generations. Mark Davidson was also convincing as young Mark and has quite the singing voice.
Beyond its dynamic characters, the play thrived on its authentic dialogue, infused with the natural cadence and humour of Jamaican speech. The students in the audience found themselves laughing, gasping, and nodding in understanding, drawn into a story that, for many, felt all too familiar.
One of the most compelling moments of the production came in the classroom scene where Miss Juicy confronted Danieka about the real meaning of discipline.
“Discipline nuh mean lick, discipline mean care,” she declared, a line that resonated deeply with the young audience.
Not a Discipline plays at 5 and 8 p.m. on Ash Wednesday, March 5 at Johnny’s Place, Dunrobin Avenue, St. Andrew.
English (US) ·