REVIEW: ENOUGH by Emily Hunter, Camden Fringe at Lion and Unicorn Theatre 8 – 10 August 2024

“All you had to do was keep your mouth shut.”★★★★

Irie Dayton, a young black police recruit fresh out of Hendon, is put through her paces at her first placement, finding her new colleagues far from the principled paragons of justice that she expects. Every day misogyny and racism are played out subtly, making it easy to see why complaints of bullying and a toxic work environment are difficult to uphold against corrupt colleagues if all you have by way of proof is a feeling and an untoward tone of voice.

“Enough” boasts a tight script, firm direction, an impressive sound design and sterling performances from the main cast. The three leads are exceptional, giving understated and nuanced performances. The optimistically upbeat Dayton who slowly has her dreams crushed is played with heart and gusto by Riah Amelle, while Emily Hunter turns in a skilful performance as the world-weary Dash, who’s more interested in a bacon butty and an easy life than upholding justice, and Gemma Green’s intense performance as the lawless and disillusioned Spence, who is jaded by years on the force and not getting the recognition she feels she deserves, is first-rate.

The writer, Emily Hunter, has clearly done her research and it shows in the authentic dialogue and situations Dayton finds herself in. At a time when the public’s trust in the police is at an all-time low, “Enough” explores the noxious attitudes and work practices within the police force that have paved the way to this sentiment (particularly rage inducing was a scene where the police interviewed a rape victim and we only heard one side - theirs. As a police officer rattles off standard questions it becomes increasingly clear that the onus of sexual assault is placed on the victim, with little empathy). There’s also a clever twist right at the end that makes you re-evaluate the entire play and, for some audience members, re-think their assumptions.

“Enough” is a powerful, thought-provoking piece of theatre that leaves you angry and asking questions. When you can’t trust those who are supposed to uphold the law and protect you, who can you trust? When is enough actually enough?

ENOUGH by Emily Hunter, Camden Fringe at Lion and Unicorn Theatre 8 – 10 August 2024

Presented by Moonstone Theatre

Instagram: moonstone_theatre

T: @Moonstoneplays

Annie Power is the Artistic Director of Open Page Productions, and an award-winning writer and producer.