REVIEW: LEARNING at Upstairs at the Gatehouse 4 – 16 February 2025

‘Where do we truly belong?’ ★★★★

Tradition is a tricky matter, especially for women. As an East Asian woman in the diaspora, I have experienced this complexity firsthand. Westernization has often been associated with the liberation of women's rights, while tradition is frequently seen as something oppressive. But once you leave your country, the world constantly questions your identity. Whenever I go, people ask, What does this mean to you? Is this truly yours? For those of us living in Westernized or modernized environments, this questioning can lead to an introspective search for what people call tradition and where I truly belong too.

Learning tells the story of a Jewish couple in London, Deb and Jonathan. Raised in London, they both identify as Londoners while also carrying their Jewish heritage. As Jonathan begins to immerse himself in learning about Judaism, tensions arise within their relationship. For him, this exploration is a way to find belonging; for Deb, it represents the oppression of women's rights.

Originally developed from monologues into a full-length piece, Francesca Rose's writing carries a deeply personal and intimate appeal. Sharon Reshef Armony's direction is playful and versatile, using movement, music, and space effectively alongside Gemma Franco's evocative compositions. The production's strength lies in its thoughtful and deliberate pacing, largely thanks to the grounded performances of lead actors Gemma Franco and Nick Delvallé. The only drawback is the ending, which feels somewhat rushed in its resolution.

This week, Donald Trump declared the resumption of war in the Gaza District if the prisoners are not released till the weekend. In times like these, the question of belonging becomes even more urgent. Where do we truly belong? Is it to a land, a tradition, or a religion? Where do we find acceptance? Watching Learning today made me reflect deeply on these questions.

Photography credit: Sebastian Gonzalez

LEARNING by Francesca Rose

Artistic Director - Sharon Reshef Armony

Musical Director / Debs / Counsellor - Gemma Franco

Jonathan / Counsellor - Nick Devillé